Autoimmune activity may be unleashed as a result of infection due to

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All of the given choices (molecular mimicry, unmasking of cryptic self-antigen, activation of co-stimulatory signaling) have been shown to potentially trigger autoimmune activity as a result of infection. Molecular mimicry occurs when pathogen-derived antigens closely resemble self-antigens, leading to cross-reactivity and autoimmunity. Unmasking of cryptic self-antigens occurs when the immune system is exposed to self-antigens that are normally sequestered or hidden, leading to loss of tolerance and autoimmune responses. Finally, activation of co-stimulatory signaling pathways on antigen-presenting cells by infectious agents can lead to the activation of self-reactive T cells and the development of autoimmune disease.

Autoimmune Activity May Be Unleashed as a Result of Infection