körpereigenes

Körpereigenes is a German-language term used in biology and medicine to describe substances, structures, or processes that originate from within an individual’s body. In practice, it is often translated as endogenous or self-produced, as opposed to exogenous or foreign material that comes from outside.

Endogenous substances include hormones such as insulin and cortisol, neurotransmitters like dopamine, metabolic intermediates, enzymes, and other biomolecules synthesized by cells. The concept also covers endogenous antigens—self-antigens that are normally recognized by the immune system and help maintain self-tolerance, but can become targets in autoimmune diseases when tolerance fails.

In immunology, körpereigenes elements are relevant for understanding autoimmunity, transplantation, and immune tolerance. The term is also used for endogenous tissues in transplantation contexts, where autologous (körpereigenes) grafts can reduce immune rejection. In genetics and virology, endogenous elements include retroviruses integrated into the host genome that are inherited across generations. In pharmacology and toxicology, distinguishing endogenous from exogenous substances aids in understanding metabolism, distribution, and drug interactions.

The concept generalizes to various domains, referencing mediators produced by the body, such as prostaglandins and cytokines, as well as internal physiological processes. Overall, körpereigenes denotes internal origin and homeostasis, and serves as a baseline for diagnosing disease, evaluating physiology, and guiding research.