Human retroviral sequences associated with extracellular particles in autoimmune diseases: epiphenomenon or possible role in aetiopathogenesis?

ABSTRACT

Publications describing retroviral sequences associated with extracellular particles in Sjögren's syndrome or systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple sclerosis, and type I diabetes present novel arguments and raise complex questions about eventual relationships between retroviruses and autoimmunity. They are presented and discussed in the present review, preceded by an overview of the biology of retroviral elements.