From etiopathogenesis to the prediction of autoimmune diseases: relevance of autoantibodies

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Disease-associated autoantibodies are increasingly vital for routine diagnostics and research, as they can be detected long before clinical symptoms appear, potentially aiding in disease prediction. However, their role in early diagnosis and risk assessment requires further investigation. Chapter 1 discusses current knowledge and perspectives on predicting organ-specific and systemic autoimmune diseases. Understanding the pathological processes leading to these diseases is crucial for early intervention. For example, components of the innate immune system, such as Toll-like receptors, significantly influence autoantibody responses and disease progression (Chapter 2). Chapters 3 to 6 explore the varying effects of autoantibodies on immune homeostasis and autoimmune conditions, including natural autoantibodies and those targeting protective molecules and receptor structures. Subsequent chapters review autoantibodies in organ-specific (Chapter 6) and systemic autoimmune diseases (Chapter 7), with a focus on the diagnostic and prognostic significance of autoantibodies against citrullinated proteins. Chapter 9 addresses methodological aspects and diagnostic strategies for early detection of autoimmune rheumatic diseases, highlighting technologies for identifying novel autoantibodies and improving analyses through autoantigen design and innovations. Optimized, standardized, and cost-effective multiparametric assays are essential for