Although these conditions vary in their presentation, degree of HLA association, and response to relatively non-specific therapy, there is growing evidence both clinically and in experimental models that these conditions are characterised by an exaggerated immune response which causes tissue destruction and, without an infective aetiology, is likely to be autoimmune in nature. The points at which the inflammatory response may be inhibited successfully would depend on whether the immune response was directed against host or foreign antigen which enters the tissue. Either way, when no overt infectious or neoplastic aetiology is found treatment may be directed towards dampening the resulting inflammatory cascade and hopefully reducing tissue damage. Although present treatment is successful in some cases, it is restricted by the required longterm use, resistance in some patients, and significant side effects. Therefore there is a strong need for more selective and specific immunotherapy to be developed.
T lymphocytes in genetically susceptible individuals.
Also, the condition responds to cyclosporin, a drug that suppresses activation of T cells. The scientific guru involved in the research is Mike Salmon - check out his home page .