Summary:  This study shows a new mechanism by which autoimmunity can be triggered by exposure to environmental chemicals, such as BPA in plastic, benzene in cigarette smoke and flame retardant chemicals in our homes. The chemicals can bind to proteins in our blood, altering the shape of these proteins.  Our immune systems may no longer recognize them as safe and can make antibodies to help attack these new Franken-proteins.  The antibodies can cross-react with thyroid tissues, making our immune systems attack healthy thyroids.  One more reason to avoid chemicals.

Source: Kharrazian D, Herbert M, Vojdani A. Cross-Reactivity between Chemical Antibodies Formed to Serum Proteins and Thyroid Axis Target Sites. Int J Mol Sci. 2020;21(19):E7324. Published 2020 Oct 3. doi:10.3390/ijms21197324