Self-tolerance and autoimmunity.

Studies of self-tolerance and autoimmunity have moved rapidly into new arenas. These include the definition of at least two mechanisms for tolerance induction in both T and B cells, the creation of new disease-susceptible strains such as the HLA-B27 transgenic rats, the creation of new disease-resistant strains such as I-E or I-Ak NOD transgenic mice, and the precise definition of both antigen and antigen receptor for pathogenic lymphocytes in some models. More effective therapies for autoimmune disease should result from the knowledge gained.