Humans possess a number of mechanisms that provide protection against a multitude of pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria and parasites. Unfortunately, there are instances when the immune system that monitors and disposes of pathogens can react to an individual’s own cells. This aberrant response is known as autoimmunity and can lead to the development of autoimmune disease. More than 80 autoimmune diseases are known to exist and include rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and type 1 diabetes (T1D), to name a few.

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