@article{3098351,
    title = "The role of epithelial cells in the initiation and perpetuation of
autoimmune lesions: lessons from Sjogren's syndrome (autoimmune
epithelitis)",
    author = "Mitsias, DI and Kapsogeorgou, EK and Moutsopoulos, HM",
    journal = "Lupus Science and Medicine",
    year = "2006",
    volume = "15",
    number = "5",
    pages = "255-261",
    publisher = "SAGE Publications Ltd",
    doi = "10.1191/0961203306lu2290rr",
    keywords = "antigen-presenting cell; apoptosis; autoimmune epithelitis; enterovirus
(Coxsackie); exosomes; epithelial cell; Sjogren’s syndrome",
    abstract = "Sjogren’s syndrome (SS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting
epithelial tissues. Exocrine glands are the primary target and their
functional impairment comes as a result of immune attack of epithelial
cells of the affected organs (autoimmune epithelitis). In this
interplay, the role of the epithelial cell is pivotal. Extensive data
point to an intrinsically activated status. Moreover, the epithelial
cells possess all the features needed in order to act as
non-professional antigen presenting cells. Through apoptosis and
exosomes release endocellular antigens contributing to tolerance
breakdown. In addition, produce cytokines and chemokines that recruit
lymphocytes in the immunopathogenic lesion. Herein, we review all the
aforementioned aspects of the epithelial activity that lead to the
perpetuation of the lesion as well as the probable viral factors for the
intrinsic activation. Finally, we propose a model for SS pathogenesis
that integrates the knowledge accumulated during the last decade."
}