Antigen-specific therapy for autoimmune disease

The application of self-antigens as therapeutic tools is validated in inbre d animal models of autoimmune disease. Mechanisms of antigen-induced tolera nce (apoptosis, anergy, regulatory T cells and immune deviation) are being clarified in relation to the properties-of antigens and the modes and route s of their delivery. Mucosa-mediated tolerance remains the predominant mode of antigen-specific therapy but awaits demonstration of clinical efficacy in human autoimmune disease.