Autoimmune disease is the result of the body's immune system targeting and attacking its own tissues in the same way that it would normally tackle infection. The tissues affected become inflamed and damaged.
The city of Venice is a major center of culture and tourism in Italy, a country in southeastern Europe. It is famous for its beautiful canals, palaces, and art. The city is built on more than 100 small islands.
Venice's location, in northern Italy on the Adriatic Sea, means that the city has colder, longer winters. While winter can be a great time of year to visit, especially in terms of getting a bargain and avoiding crowds, it can be harsh. The winds that whip off the Adriatic and down the alleyways are bone-chilling.