Which of the following statements is incorrect about celiac disease?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because celiac disease primarily involves an abnormal adaptive immune response to gluten, not an innate response. Here's the rationale: 1) Celiac disease is characterized by a T-cell mediated response to gluten peptides in genetically susceptible individuals. 2) The adaptive immune system, particularly T cells, plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis by recognizing gluten peptides presented by HLA-DQ2 or HLA-DQ8 molecules. 3) This adaptive immune response leads to inflammation and damage to the intestinal mucosa. 4) In contrast, the innate immune system may also be activated, but it is not the primary driver of the disease.
Summary:
A: Correct - There is a strong genetic association with HLA alleles.
B: Incorrect - Celiac disease is primarily driven by an adaptive immune response, not just features of autoimmunity.
D: Incorrect - While gluten exposure triggers the immune response, the disease is not solely driven by gluten intake.