Pathology · Immunopathology (Hypersensitivity, Autoimmunity, Immunodeficiency, Amyloidosis)

Goodpasture syndrome involves autoantibodies against which specific antigen in the glomerular basement membrane?

  • A Laminin-521
  • B Heparan sulfate proteoglycan (perlecan)
  • C Fibronectin
  • D Alpha-3 chain of type IV collagen (NC1 domain)
Correct answer: D. Alpha-3 chain of type IV collagen (NC1 domain)

Explanation

Goodpasture syndrome is caused by IgG autoantibodies targeting the non-collagenous (NC1) domain of the alpha-3 chain of type IV collagen, which is specifically expressed in glomerular and alveolar basement membranes. This Type II hypersensitivity causes rapidly progressive (crescentic) glomerulonephritis with linear IgG deposits on immunofluorescence and pulmonary hemorrhage. The NC1 domain is normally cryptic but becomes exposed after environmental triggers (smoking, infections).

Reference: Robbins & Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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