Authors: Coppo R, Amore A, Peruzzi L, Vergano L, Camilla R
The hallmark of IgA nephropathy (IgAN) is macroscopic hematuria coinciding with, or immediately following, a mucosal infection, usually of the upper respiratory airways. The role of mucosal pathogens has been proven in different experimental models. Mucosal (or innate) immunity acts through the recognition of pathogen-associated molecular patterns by macrophages, dendritic cells, leukocytes and other cells, and favors opsonization and phagocytosis. Then, mature dendritic cells interact with lymphocytes leading to activation of specific T cell and antibody synthesis. A dysregulation of innate immunity in IgAN is likely to result in failure of mucosal antigen elimination and/or altered IgA synthesis as well as inflammation. Compl...