chronic inflammatory response to antigenic stimulus

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

A chronic inflammatory response to an antigenic stimulus. A chronic inflammatory response persists indefinitely during days, weeks, or months in the life of an individual. [GOC:add, ISBN:0781735149]

Chronic inflammatory response to antigenic stimulus is a complex and multifaceted process involving a cascade of cellular and molecular events that occur when the immune system encounters a persistent or recurring antigen. This persistent antigen exposure leads to a prolonged inflammatory response, characterized by sustained activation of immune cells, release of inflammatory mediators, and tissue damage. The process can be broadly divided into three phases: initiation, amplification, and resolution.

**Initiation:**

* Antigen presentation: The initial step involves the presentation of the antigen to antigen-presenting cells (APCs), such as macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells. APCs engulf the antigen and process it into smaller peptides.
* Activation of T cells: The processed antigen is displayed on the surface of APCs in the context of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. This presentation triggers the activation of specific T cells, primarily CD4+ helper T cells (Th cells).
* Cytokine production: Activated Th cells release cytokines, such as interleukin-2 (IL-2) and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), which further amplify the immune response.

**Amplification:**

* Recruitment of inflammatory cells: The release of cytokines and chemokines attracts other immune cells, including neutrophils, macrophages, and lymphocytes, to the site of inflammation.
* Tissue damage: The influx of inflammatory cells and the release of inflammatory mediators can cause tissue damage and fibrosis.

**Resolution:**

* Resolution of inflammation: Ideally, the immune system resolves the inflammation by eliminating the antigen and restoring tissue homeostasis. This involves mechanisms such as apoptosis of inflammatory cells, clearance of debris, and tissue repair.

**Persistence and chronicity:**

* In chronic inflammation, the inflammatory response fails to resolve, leading to persistent activation of immune cells and chronic tissue damage. This can be due to factors such as persistent antigen exposure, genetic predisposition, or impaired immune regulation.
* The persistent antigen exposure could be due to various factors like chronic infections, autoimmune diseases, or environmental pollutants.
* The chronic inflammatory response often leads to the development of various diseases such as arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

**Key features of chronic inflammatory response to antigenic stimulus:**

* Persistent antigen exposure
* Sustained activation of immune cells
* Release of inflammatory mediators
* Tissue damage and fibrosis
* Impaired immune regulation
* Development of chronic diseases

**Note:** This is a simplified explanation of a complex process. The specific mechanisms and factors involved can vary depending on the specific antigen and the individual's immune system.'
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