Checkpoint Molecules in Rheumatology—or the Benefits of Being Exhausted

This review will focus on the most common co-inhibitory molecules, emphasizing the importance of these in relation to rheumatic disease. Checkpoint molecules are pivotal in determining the outcome of antigen activation. Checkpoint molecules consist of co-stimulatory and co-inhibitory molecules, where the first activates and the latter inhibits the antigen presentation process. Studies show that increased activity of co-inhibitory molecules is...