The etiology and pathogenesis of autoimmune endocrinopathies are now much clearer
as a result of advances in our understanding of basic immunology, and particularly
the development of novel animal models. Also crucial has been the molecular characterisation
of target autoantigens, although this still remains elusive for some disorders, such
as hypoparathyroidism and premature ovarian failure, retarding progress. The application
of new genetic techniques, the detailed structural analysis of autoantigen epitopes
and the creation of new experimental animal disorders (by DNA immunisation or knockouts)
will ensure still more rapid progress into the new millennium.
Autoimmunity - thyroid disease - genetics - pathogenesis
