When Your Body Attacks Itself – Autoimmune

Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell • 2025-07-01T14:00:01Z • 10:55 • intermediate • Health

Lead

Have you ever wondered why your immune system sometimes turns against you? Explore the fascinating world of autoimmune diseases and discover how our body's defenses can become our worst enemy.

Video

Quiz

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Q1. What happens during autoimmunity?

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Q2. Which of the following is NOT mentioned as an autoimmune disease in the video?

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Q3. What role do T cells play in the immune response?

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Q4. What is a common trigger event for autoimmune diseases?

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Q5. Why do autoimmune diseases persist in the population despite being harmful?

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Vocabulary

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autoimmunity

/ˌɔːtəʊɪˈmjuːnɪti/

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Definition

A condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own healthy cells and tissues.

Example

Autoimmunity can lead to various diseases, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

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colossal

/kəˈlɑːsəl/

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Definition

Extremely large or great; immense.

Example

The colossal storm caused widespread damage across the region.

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cytokines

/ˈsaɪtəˌkaɪnz/

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Definition

Small proteins released by cells that have a specific effect on the interactions and communications between cells.

Example

Cytokines play a crucial role in the immune response by signaling other cells to act.

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nefarious

/nəˈfɛəriəs/

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Definition

Wicked or criminal; villainous.

Example

The nefarious scheme was uncovered by the authorities before it could be executed.

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insulation

/ˌɪnsəˈleɪʃən/

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Definition

Material used to prevent the passage of electricity, heat, or sound from one area to another.

Example

The insulation in the walls helped keep the house warm during the winter months.

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unpredictable

/ˌʌnprɪˈdɪktəbl/

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Definition

Not able to be predicted; changeable or uncertain.

Example

The weather in spring can be quite unpredictable, often changing from sunny to rainy in a matter of minutes.

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