THE ROLE OF CARDIAC GLYCOSIDES IN AUTOIMMUNE REACTIONS

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiac glycosides, a class of compounds derived from plants like foxglove and oleander, are widely used in the treatment of heart failure and certain arrhythmias. These compounds, including digoxin and digitoxin, have been known for their ability to increase the force of cardiac muscle contraction by inhibiting the sodium-potassium ATPase pump. However, recent studies suggest that cardiac glycosides may also have implications in autoimmune reactions, influencing both the immune system and the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases.