autoimmune

adjective

au·​to·​im·​mune ˌȯ-tō-im-ˈyün 

: of, relating to, or caused by autoantibodies or T cells that attack molecules, cells, or tissues of the organism producing them

autoimmune diseases

autoimmunity

ˌȯ-tō-im-ˈyü-nə-tē 

noun

autoimmunization

ˌȯ-tō-ˌim-yə-nə-ˈzā-shən 

 also  -im-ˌyü-

noun

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Any healthy body produces a variety of antibodies, proteins in the blood whose job is to protect the body from unwanted bacteria, viruses, and cancer cells. The cells and organs that deal with such infections make up the immune system. In some people and animals, for various reasons, the antibodies become overactive and turn on the body's healthy tissues as well; the result is an autoimmune disease—an immune response directed against one's own self. More than eighty autoimmune diseases have been identified, the best-known being type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Examples of autoimmune in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Systemic lupus erythematosus, commonly referred to as lupus, is a chronic autoimmune disease, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. —Nathan Vinson, People.com, 23 Feb. 2025

However, gluten can have an autoimmune and inflammatory effect on people with certain conditions. —Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 21 Feb. 2025

Inflammation is believed to be a major driver in preventing cholesterol build-up, but also in other illnesses including autoimmune diseases, Alzheimer's and even anxiety and depression. —Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 21 Feb. 2025

Riz Ahmed co-wrote and stars in the lauded drama, which tells the story of Zed, a British-Pakistani rapper on the verge of his big break when he is suddenly struck by a debilitating autoimmune disease. —Matt Grobar, Deadline, 20 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

auto- + immune, after autoimmunity, borrowed from French auto-immunité

First Known Use

1952, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

autoimmune

adjective

au·​to·​im·​mune ˌȯt-ō-im-ˈyün 

: relating to or caused by an abnormal condition in which an organism's immune system attacks and destroys parts of its own cells or tissues

multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease

Medical Definition

autoimmune

adjective

au·​to·​im·​mune -im-ˈyün 

: of, relating to, or caused by antibodies or T cells that attack molecules, cells, or tissues of the organism producing them

autoimmune diseases