TCR similarities (IMAGE) Washington University School of Medicine Caption A T cell receptor that recognizes a human protein fragment (left) is remarkably similar to one that recognizes a bacterial protein fragment (right), and to two receptors capable of recognizing both human and bacterial protein fragments (middle). A study by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and colleagues at Stanford University and Oxford University supports the idea that some T cells that react to microbes also may react to normal human proteins, causing autoimmune disease. The findings promise to accelerate efforts to improve diagnostic tools and treatments for autoimmune diseases. Credit Xinbo Yang and K. Chris Garcia Usage Restrictions This image is to be used in accordance with the mission, policies and guidelines of Washington University in St. Louis. Visit https://wustl.edu/about/compliance-policies/media-policies/multimedia-use/ for more information. License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.