Chronic viral hepatitis has emerged as one of the most common causes of disease and death worldwide. Because of their unique modes of replication and intimate association with the host immune system, hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) pose challenging problems to scientists in basic and applied research as well as to clinicians engaged in disease management. Although approved antiviral therapy is available for chronic HBV, the emergence of viral resistance provides a rationale for the development of novel chemotherapeutic agents. The lack of a robust cell culture system for HCV replication and a readily accessible small-animal model of HCV infection have hampered the development of antiviral agents for HCV. Neverthe-less, new antiviral agents targeting HCV are now in preclinical and clinical development.

This monograph, providing an up-to-date overview of the field of Hepatitis Prevention and Treatment, includes contributions from internationally recognized experts in the field of viral hepatitis, and covers the current state of knowledge and practice regarding the molecular biology, immunology, biochemistry, pharmacology and clinical aspects of chronic HBV and HCV infection. The volume includes salient topics such as: the history and epidemiology of HBV and HCV; recent insights into the molecular mechanisms of viral replication; the host immune response to infection and a discussion of the use (HBV) or potential development (HCV) of vaccines; the current standard of care for chronically-infected patients; and emerging therapies and issues associated with current antiviral treatments. The latest information to researchers and clinicians actively engaged in viral hepatitis research is provided, but also sufficient background and discussion of the literature to benefit the newcomer to the field.

This volume details our current understanding of the architecture and signaling capabilities of the B cell antigen receptor (BCR) in health and disease. The first chapters review new insights into the assembly of BCR components and their organization on the cell surface. Subsequent contributions focus on the molecular interactions that connect the BCR with major intracellular signaling pathways such as Ca2+ mobilization, membrane phospholipid metabolism, nuclear translocation of NF-kB or the activation of Bruton's Tyrosine Kinase and MAP kinases. These elements orchestrate cytoplasmic and nuclear responses as well as cytoskeleton dynamics for antigen internalization. Furthermore, a key mechanism of how B cells remember their cognate antigen is discussed in detail. Altogether, the discoveries presented provide a better understanding of B cell biology and help to explain some B cell-mediated pathogenicities, like autoimmune phenomena or the formation of B cell tumors, while also paving the way for eventually combating these diseases.

'A perfect blend of cutting-edge science and compelling storytelling. Daniel Davis has a rare knack for making complex science comprehensible and thrilling' BILL BRYSON Welcome to a revolution in the science of you. Recent and dramatic breakthroughs in our understanding of the body will profoundly change the experience of being human in the coming century. Already they are opening up boundary-breaking possibilities for intervention at every level, from our brains and genes to our microbiomes and immune systems. These will confer unprecedented powers over health, childhood development, our cognitive and physical abilities, and affect every aspect of how we live our lives and think about ourselves. As the secrets of our bodies are revealed, we all will face previously unthinkable choices with consequences we have yet to understand. Imagine knowing years in advance the precise likelihood of developing specific cancers, thanks to a bespoke understanding of every cell in your body; following a diet and health regime tailored to your microbiome; continuous monitoring of your body's workings and well-being; taking drugs that improve your cognition and help to acquire new skills; manipulating the genes of your unborn children to eliminate disease or even enhance their capabilities. Written by an award-winning scientist at the forefront of this work, The Secret Body shows how these radical and disconcerting possibilities have been made real thanks to the ingenious technologies and decades-long collaborations of scientists worldwide. A gripping drama of discovery and a landmark account of this dawning revolution, it presents a vision of the human body of dizzying complexity, wonder and possibility. 'A beautifully rendered picture of the startling new discoveries in human biology which are radically altering our understanding of how we function and what our future holds' BRIAN COX 'An extraordinary journey that reveals the magnificence, intricacy and beauty of the human body, fundamentally changing the way we see ourselves. Masterful' ALICE ROBERTS

As with the much-praised prior editions, the third edition of Strelkauskas' Microbiology: A Clinical Approach remains a comprehensive introductory textbook written specifically for pre-nursing, nursing and allied health students. Clinically relevant throughout, it uses the theme of infection as its foundation, fitting closely with the 'One Health' approach that is considered increasingly central to the effective control of zoonoses and to combatting antimicrobial resistance. The third edition has been thoroughly revised and updated to reflect the latest developments, including the emergence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and associated COVID-19 pandemic. The book is accompanied by a robust instructor ancillary package that allows educators to incorporate readily the book’s unique approach into their lectures and includes additional materials for students to supplement classroom learning and encourage and support study and self-reflection. Key Features: Student-focused, with all elements carefully designed to help students engage with and understand difficult concepts and to spark and hold interest Dedicated learning skill section introduces practical strategies for improving comprehension and retention Numerous text features further support learning and teaching, including chapter overviews, fast facts, case studies and human stories, and ‘why is this important?’ highlights A variety of question-and-answer types for self-testing and reflection to support and assess basic learning, to challenge students to integrate important concepts and ask students to apply what they have just learned to a specific clinical setting or problem All supported by a comprehensive suite of online resources including lecturer support material and, for students, interactive questions, lecture notes, MicroMovies and the BugParade The book is an excellent resource to guide and support inter-professional education in the health sciences and an ideal entry-point to the subject for anyone coming from another discipline and invaluable supplementary reading for medical, microbiology and biomedical science students.

This volume details state-of-the- art methods on computer-aided antibody design. Chapters guide readers through information on antibody sequences and structures, modeling antibody structures and dynamics, prediction and optimization of biological and biophysical properties of antibodies, prediction of antibody-antigen interactions, and computer-aided antibody affinity maturation and beyond. Written in the format of the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, each chapter includes an introduction to the topic, lists necessary materials and reagents, includes tips on troubleshooting and known pitfalls, and step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Computer-Aided Antibody Design aims to be a useful and practical guide to new researchers and experts looking to expand their knowledge. Chapter 2 is available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.

Cervical cancer is a major disease worldwide, with 500,000 new cases diagnosed every year. Through aetiological studies, an association has been established with human papilloma virus (HPV) infection throughout the pathological spectrum of this disease. Studies of the molecular and biological basis for the role of HPV in cervical lesions involve clinicians, virologists, cell and molecular biologists, and most recently immunologists. This book is a review of HPV infection in cervical cancer, providing the background to the potential for immunological intervention. Individual chapters have been written so that the reader, irrespective of level or discipline, can follow the text, and each is integrated so that the book as a whole provides a detailed insight into the most relevant scientific issues of HPV and cervical cancer. This book should provide an interface for students, scientists and clinicians with a realistic and critical evaluation of the advances and problems in the implementation of immunologically based prophylactic and therapeutic strategies in HPV-associated disease. This book should be of use to postgraduate students, research scientists and clinicians involved in eith

Building upon the extensive compilation of biochemical data featured in Volume I of the Handbook of Eicosanoids, the new Volume II describes the past, present, and potential future impact of eicosanoid research on new drug development. The reader is taken from a historical perspective through state-of-the-art basic concepts to extensive tabulation of molecular structures of compounds known to act via the eicosanoid system. Much emphasis is given to recent breakthroughs in the mechanism of action of anti-inflammatory corticosteroids and the development of receptor antagonists for prostaglandins and leukotrienes. There is also an introductory chapter that proposes areas that require further investigation and novel approaches using existing technology. This handbook will thus be invaluable for medicinal chemists, pharmacologists, and all those involved in basic research in the eicosanoid area. In addition, many parts of this handbook are suitable for use by university lecturers and students. There are 20 figures and 44 extensive tables as well as a bibliography containing more than 2,000 references that complement the text.

The purpose of this book is to provide information which supports the fact that rat hybridomas are no more difficult to develop than mouse hybridomas. This is the first book devoted to the development of rat hybridomas. It includes theories, step-by-step techniques, ingredients and apparatus. The focus of this work is on the antibody repertoire, the unique biological properties of rat immunoglobulins, the one-step purification procedure by immunoaffinity chromatography, the absence of C-type particles, and the easy production of large amounts of ascitic fluid containing rat MAb. This rare publication is an absolute must for all scientists using MAbs and those interested in the fields of immunology, biotechnology, and biochemistry.

Hepatocyte and Kupffer Cell Interactions presents a comprehensive discussion of historical and recent information regarding this diverse field of research. The role of Kupffer cells and hepatoctyes in normal physiology, nonseptic pathological states, and in sepsis is examined. Microanatomy and methods of experimental study are covered as well. In each of the book's chapters, the role of the Kupffer cell and hepatocyte interaction is placed in context with information on particular liver functions or disease states. Hepatocyte and Kupffer Cell Interactions is an essential reference for leukocyte specialists, gastroenterologists, immunologists, and other researchers working in this fascinating field.

Cytokine Effector Functions in Tissues discusses the cytokines networks in the context of the specific-tissue environment. It is an up-to-date collection of articles that addresses the specific issue of how the cytokines are able to condition tissue specific homeostasis. The book helps the reader understand how cytokines network inside the tissues and highlights whether tissue-protection or exacerbation will be finally controlled. It describes the cytokines detected and regulated in different tissues, such as the brain, lungs, spleen, liver, pancreas and intestine, also addressing the issue of timing in specific cell types.

Antibodies are indispensable tools for research, diagnosis, and therapy. Recombinant approaches allow the modification and improvement of nearly all antibody properties, such as affinity, valency, specificity, stability, serum half-life, effector functions, and immunogenicity. "Antibody Engineering" provides a comprehensive toolbox covering the well-established basics but also many exciting new techniques. The protocols reflect the latest "hands on" knowledge of key laboratories in this still fast-moving field. Newcomers will benefit from the proven step-by-step protocols, which include helpful practical advice; experienced antibody engineers will appreciate the new ideas and approaches. The book is an invaluable resource for all those engaged in antibody research and development.

Advances in Immunology, Volume 134, the latest release in a long-established and highly respected publication, presents current developments and comprehensive reviews in immunology. Topics covered in this new volume include ?d T Cells and B Cells, A Chemoattractant-Guided Walk Through Lymphopoiesis: From Hematopoietic Stem Cells to Mature B Lymphocytes. Tissue Specific Regulation of Dendritic Cell Development and Function, and the Regulation of Innate and Adaptive Immunity by Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGFss). Articles in this long running series address the wide range of topics that comprise immunology, including molecular and cellular activation mechanisms, phylogeny and molecular evolution, and clinical modalities. Edited and authored by the foremost scientists in the field, each volume provides up-to-date information and directions for the future.

This book centers on gene therapy and gene transfer approaches to prevent or treat chronic virus infections. The main focus is on the Big Three: human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1), hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV). Ample anti-HIV drugs are currently available in the clinic and the development of an effective combination therapy has dramatically improved the lifespan and quality of life of infected individuals. A similar trend can already be recognized for HBV and HCV: the development of multiple (directly acting) antiviral drugs and plans to control or even cure the infection. However, approaches that help prevent infection, or which provide long-lasting treatment (such as a cure) remain important goals. Immunization through gene transfer vehicles encoding immunogenic viral proteins shows promise in preventing infections with complex, highly variable, viruses such as HIV-1 or HCV. Gene therapy applications for virus infections have been discussed since the early 1990's. Whereas a true cure seems difficult to achieve for HIV-1 due to its intrinsic property to deposit its genome into that of the host, such attempts may be within reach for HCV where spontaneous viral clearance occurs in a small percentage of the infected individuals. The prospect of original gene therapy approaches may provide alternative ways to reach the same endpoint by, for example, silencing of CCR5 expression post-transcriptionally. Many alternative antiviral strategies have been developed based on a variety of novel molecular methods: e.g. ribozymes. Some studies have progressed towards pre-clinical animal models and a few antiviral gene therapies have progressed towards clinical trials. This book provides an overview of this rapidly progressing field, while focusing on the interface of gene therapy and immunology/vaccinology.

Nanomedicine for Inflammatory Diseases is a cutting-edge resource for clinicians and scientists alike, working at the intersection of development and clinical therapeutics. This text is ideal for graduate level courses in nanomedicine, translational medicine, or inflammatory disease. This book is a progressive hallmark in translational medicine as it unites clinicians treating inflammatory disease with scientists developing experimental nanomedicine therapeutics. The commonality is made through a translational nanomedicine expert - bridging the gap between the laboratory benchtop and the clinical bedside.

Advances in Applied Microbiology, Volume 99 continues is one of the most widely read and authoritative review sources in microbiology, containing comprehensive reviews of the most current research in applied microbiology. This volume presents comprehensive information on a variety of topics, including the Physiological Role of Two-Component Signal Transduction Systems in Food-Associated Lactic Acid Bacteria, Fungal Bio recovery of Gold from E-Waste, Stone-Eating Fungi: Mechanisms in Bio weathering and the Potential Role of Laccases in Black Slate Degradation with the Basidiomycete Schizophyllum commune, and the Arsenic Detoxification System in Corynebacteria: Basis and Application for Bioremediation and Redox Control. This serial's eclectic volumes are supplemented by thematic volumes on various topics, including Archaea and sick building syndrome. Users will find invaluable references and information on a variety of areas, including protozoan grazing of freshwater biofilms, metals in yeast fermentation processes, the interpretation of host-pathogen dialogue through microarrays, and the role of polyamines in bacterial growth and biofilm formation.

This issue of Immunology and Allergy Clinics, guest edited by Dr. Andrew A. White, is devoted to Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease. Articles in this issue include: An Overview of Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug Reactions; The Clinical Presentation of Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease; Diagnostic Evaluation in Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease; Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease as an Endotype of Chronic Rhinosinusitis; Pathogenesis of Aspirin Reactions in Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease; Performing Aspirin Desensitization; Clinical Trials in Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease Treatment; Eosinophils and Mast Cells in Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease; Mechanisms of Benefit with Aspirin Therapy; Lipid Mediators in Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease; and Epigenetic and Genetic Components of Aspirin-Exacerbated Respiratory Disease.

This volume reviews the current state of research on the IgM antibody and its multiple receptors and binding proteins. Interactions of the IgM ligands with these molecules are important for protection against infections as a first line of defense, as well as for regulation of immune responses to pathogens and self-antigens. The book includes up-to-date information on: (i) the phylogeny of three IgM-binding receptors [polymeric Ig receptor (pIgR), Fc receptor for both IgA and IgM (Fc /R), and Fc receptor for IgM only (FcR)]; (ii) the lymphocyte-restricted distribution and unique ligand-binding activity of FcR; (iii) the definition and potential function of Fc receptor-like molecule A (FCRLA) as a resident endoplasmic reticulum protein that binds IgM, but also IgG and IgA; (iv) IgM antibody-mediated enhancement of humoral immune responses, highlighting the importance of complement and its receptors, (v) the numerous important roles of IgM natural antibodies in regulation of inflammation. It is an invaluable resource for researchers and clinicians alike.

Cytokines and Mental Health explores the relationship between cytokines, neural circuitry and mental health. It is interdisciplinary and "translational," bringing together information that spans the spectrum from the molecular and cellular levels to the patient and the clinic. Content includes chapters that discuss cytokine pathways in the brain, the neurochemical and neuroendocrine effects of cytokines, and the behavioral effects of cytokines including sickness behavior. These chapters in basic research are followed by a more clinical section that discusses the role of cytokines in neuropsychiatric disorders such as major depression, schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. The book offers different things to different people. It should be of great interest to neuroscientists and immunologists working in the field of psychoneuroimmunology. It would also greatly benefit mental health professionals including psychiatrists, psychologists and clinicians of diverse background who are interested in mind-body medicine.

Leading researchers synthesize scattered experimental data to help develop an intimate understanding of how cytokines and chemokines are involved in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. The many chapters offer critical reviews the basic mechanisms controlling cytokine induction and regulation, as well as the resulting production of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, the former of which induces organ-specific autoimmune diseases. From the vantage of these insights, they address the role of cytokines in a wide variety of autoimmune diseases, uvetis, encephalomyelitis, multiple sclerosis, human type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, and myasthenia gravis. Authoritative and state-of-the-art, Cytokines and Autoimmune Disease highlights the enormous therapeutic potential of cytokine modulation in the treatment of autoimmune disease.

This book discusses the relationship between cellular immunity and tryptophan metabolism, as well as its products, serotonin and melatonin, in the development of several diseases and reappraises the common signal transduction pathways of the neurodegenerative diseases, carcinogenesis, immune tolerance, inflammation, hypersensitivity reactions, neuropsychiatric disorders, in addition to bacterial tryptophan biosynthesis and novel antimicrobials. Tryptophan Metabolism: Implications for Biological Processes, Health and Disease presents fundamental information on tryptophan related metabolic pathways and metabolites, implications of these products for specific biological processes, diseases and conditions. This book focuses on effects of tryptophan metabolites on human health and will appeal to researchers, clinicians and students within this field.

Janis Kuby's groundbreaking introduction to immunology was the first textbook for the course actually written to be a textbook. Like no other text, it combined an experimental emphasis with extensive pedagogical features to help students grasp basic concepts. Now in a thoroughly updated new edition, Kuby Immunology remains the only undergraduate introduction to immunology written by teachers of the course. In the Kuby tradition, authors Judy Owen, Jenni Punt, and Sharon Stranford present the most current concepts in an experimental context, conveying the excitement of scientific discovery, and highlight important advances, but do so with the focus on the big picture of the study of immune response, enhanced by unsurpassed pedagogical support for the first-time learner.

Immunochemistry of Solid-Phase Immunoassay fills a niche in the field of immunoassay and immunology. Although solid-phase immunoassay constitutes a major technology in biology and medicine, there is no comprehensive source devoted to the immunochemical principles involved. As a result, this book will benefit students, technicians, and researchers who use this technology, as well as immunodiagnostic and biotech companies who develop the technology. The book is not a methods manual; instead, it incorporates the concepts, data, and opinions of more than 25 investigators working in this field. Topics discussed include: the chemistry of solid-phases, the behavior or antibodies and antigens on solid phases, membrane solid-phases, reaction kinetics, antigen quantitation, enzyme systems, photophysics, immunochemical considerations in data analyses, multianalyte assays and occupancy concepts, antibody quantitation, streptavidin, a review of data analysis software, and solid-phase peptide immunoassay.

This book summarizes the development and statistical validation of a guinea pig model as an alternative for potency testing of the viral antigens included in combined vaccines applied in cattle to control the respiratory, reproductive, and neonatal calf diarrhea syndromes. The model allows, in one serum sample, to test the vaccine quality for all the viral antigens included in aqueous as well as in oil-adjuvanted formulations of bovine vaccines. The methodology proposed for the control of bovine herpes virus, parainfluenza, and rotavirus were recommended by CAMEVET as guidelines for the 30 countries in the forum, including the US. Key Features Reviews combined vaccines used for cattle Summarizes animal models used for vaccine testing Focuses on bovine herpesviruses, rotaviruses, parainfluenza, and bovine viral diarrhea virus Provides guidance on the effectiveness of the Guinea Pig model for testing vaccine immunogenicity

Fully updated, with new case examples of emergent diseases including those caused by coronaviruses and ebola Diseases listed alphabetically under the causative agent, with a separate tabular presentation of the pathogens as bacteria, viral, protozoal/worm/fungal as a guide to the relative involvement of each body system affected Each case answers five core questions and concludes with a bullet-point summary of these same key questions discussing causation, clinical presentation, diagnosis, management and complications and disease prevention strategies Multiple-choice questions with each case for self-testing plus full referencing, suggestions for further reading, a list of relevant websites, and additional resources online A comprehensive glossary allows rapid access to the microbiology and medical terms highlighted in bold in the text.

Stem Cell Biology in Health and Disease presents an up-to-date overview about the dual role of stem cells in health and disease. The Editors have drawn together an international team of experts providing chapters which, in this fully-illustrated volume, discuss:

- the controversial debate on the great expectations concerning stem cell based regeneration therapies raised by the pluripotency of various stem cells.
- the advantages and concerns about embryonic stem cells (ES cells), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) and adult stem cells, such as bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMDCs).
- the type of stem cells, which has become of interest in the past decade, namely so-called cancer stem cells (CSCs). CSCs are now in the focus of cancer research since the eradication of tumour initiating cells would raise the changes of definitely cure cancer.

Professor Dittmar and Professor Zanker have edited a must-read book for researchers and professionals working in the field of regenerative medicine and/or cancer."