This volume is ideal for individuals interested in taking an in-depth look at how cytokines and chemokines participate in autoimmune disorders, and how cytokines and chemokines can be used as targets for therapeutic intervention. The outstanding features of this book are that it is divided in chapters each focusing on specific, highly prevalent autoimmune disorders. The role of cytokines and chemokines in each of these disorders is dissected in the context of the autoinimune responses that drive these diseases. Importantly, each chapter is meant to provide an in-depth review of how cytokines and chemokines participate in each disease, rather than very specific aspects of cytokine or chemokine biology. The book therefore provides an integrated view of how multiple cytokines and chemokines participate in the initiation and evolution of both systemic and organ-specific pathological immune responses.

This book provides the reader with a comprehensive overview of the Antiphospholipid syndrome. One of the most important advances in rheumatology and connective tissue diseases of the last decade. It provides an explanation for many previously undefined conditions with no clear pathogenesis encompassing all subspeculations in internal medicine as well as obstetrics. Clotting problems leading to strokes and myocardial infarctions (in younger people) as well as a large variety of other syndromes such as chorea, hyproadrenalism, pulmonary problems are now being understood.

From the 40th annual conference of the International Society on Oxygen Transport to Tissue (ISOTT), held in Bruges, Belgium in August 2012, this volume covers aspects of clinical applications, muscle oxygenation, cancer, measurement technologies, oxygen transport modelling and Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS), cell metabolism and brain oxygenation. Each topic was presented by one or two invited speakers, and a series of contributed talks.

BIOS Instant Notes in Immunology, Third Edition, is the perfect text for undergraduates looking for a concise introduction to the subject, or a study guide to use before examinations. Each topic begins with a summary of essential facts-an ideal revision checklist-followed by a description of the subject that focuses on core information, with clear, simple diagrams that are easy for students to understand and recall in essays and exams. BIOS Instant Notes in Immunology, Third Edition, is fully up-to-date and covers: * Overview of the Immune System * Cells and Molecules of the Innate Immune System * The Adaptive Immune System * Antibodies * The Antibody Response * The T Cell Response -- Cell-Mediated Immunity * Regulation of the Immune Response * Immunity to Infection * Vaccination * Immunodeficiency -- when the Immune System Fails * Hypersensitivity -- when the Immune System Misbehaves * Autoimmunity and Autoimmune Diseases * Transplantation * Tumor Immunology * Gender and the Immune System * Aging and the Immune System (Immunosenescence) * Immunotherapy

This is an outstanding survey describing medical drugs of plant origin, such as Echinacea edications, lentinan and mistletoe lectin, which have proven to be effective as immunostimulants. At a time when ever greater importance is being placed on preventive and alternative medicine, the study provides the reader with information on the physiological mechanisms of action and range of application of phytopreparations capable of inducing immunostimulatory effects when administered prophylactically or therapeutically. "Immunomodulatory Agents from Plants" addresses scientists in the pharmaceutical industry; physicians - general practitioners, internists and oncologists - who work with traditional immunostimulants; and also pharmacists wishing to improve customer service by gaining a firmer understanding of the science underlying and the clinical facts associated with drugs presently on the market.

This book describes up-to-date information on the pathogenesis and molecular biology of human papillomaviruses and describes the mechanistic role of the viruses in epithelial cancers. Included in the book are chapters on the epidemiology of human papillomaviruses, the factors that control replication and transcription and the viral proteins, which are involved in modulating the biology of the host cell leading to cancer. Details of the immune response to the viruses and potential vaccine strategies are discussed.

The therapeutic options for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurodegenerative and traumatic diseases such as spinal cord injury, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, etc. , have undergone enormous progress over recent years. Despite these encouraging developments, available therapies are only partially effective, and the ultimate goal is still far from being attained. Improved understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the pathogenesis of neurodegeneration and demyelination has led to a variety of new therapeutic targets and approaches. In addition to modulation of the in?ammatory process (MS) and cl- sical neuroprotection (stroke, AD), therapeutic approaches focussing on active remyelinization and neuronal regeneration have become incre- ingly important. Based on current concepts, this book summarizes new therapeutic approaches. Although it was once thought that the central nervous system (CNS) of mammals was incapable of substantial recovery from injury, it is now clear that the adult CNS remains responsive to various substances that can promote cell survival and stimulate axonal growth. Among these substances are growth factors, including the neurotrophins and cytokines. Stem cell therapies for the induction of remyelinization and neuroregeneration are reviewed. The potential role of a protective - munity in the induction of remyelination and neuroregeneration is also discussed. Different gene therapy approaches for the treatment of MS VI Preface and other neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and spinal cord injury, etc. , are also summarized.

Dendritic cells are vital to induce potent anti-viral immune responses. It will become clear to the reader that dendritic cells often play a dual role during viral infections. On the one hand they are able to mount potent antiviral immune responses, and on the other hand several viruses, including HIV-1, use DC as a vector to be transferred from the periphery to the lymph nodes where they infect their prime target.

Soon after the first description of monoclonal antibodies in 1976, there was enormous interest in the clinical application of antibodies, especially in the context of cancer. Antibodies appeared to offer the "magic bullet" that would allow the specific destruction of neoplastic cells. H- ever, many years' effort resulted in very few cases of successful immu- therapy with antibodies. As a result there was a major backlash against antibody therapy, and the field lost a considerable amount of popularity. Fashion, in science as well as in other things, tends to be cyclical. Antibody-based therapy is once again attracting scientists and clinicians. There are several reasons for the renewed optimism; certainly the expe- ence of the last two decades has provided a wealth of information about problems associated with antibody therapy, and possible solutions to these problems. Recombinant antibody engineering has rejuvenated the field, allowing both the modification of antibodies to improve their in vivo pr- erties and the isolation of novel antibody molecules by such techniques as phage display. The results of recent clinical trials have demonstrated unequivocally the benefit of antibody therapy in a number of settings, and, finally, more careful consideration has been taken of the types of disease best treated using this approach.

This practical collection examines methodologies originating from the benefits of genome-wide approaches to studying epigenetics, which has opened the emerging field of epigenomics. Focusing on the areas of cancer, inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, chapters discuss three main components of the epigenome and their role in the regulation of gene expression and present a detailed method section specific to studying each component, including data analyses, troubleshooting, and feasibility in different experimental settings. The main topics are high-throughput and targeted methods for DNA methylation analysis, nucleosome position mapping, studying epigenetic effects of gut microbiota, optical imaging for detection of epigenetic aberrations in living cells, methods for microRNA, and histone code profiling. Written for the Methods in Pharmacology and Toxicology series, the book includes the kind of detail and implementation advice to encourage success in the lab. Authoritative and easily applicable, Epigenetics and Gene Expression in Cancer, Inflammatory and Immune Diseases aims to provide pharmacologists, molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and toxicologists with a vital background on epigenetics and state-of-the-art techniques in epigenomics.

The FactsBook series has established itself as the best source of easily accessible and accurate facts about protein groups. Books in the series use an easy-to-follow format and are meticulously researched and compiled by experts in the field.
The Immunoglobulin FactsBook is the first published reference for all 203 human functional and ORF immunoglobulin genes. It is complete and standardized and employs nomenclature approved by the HUGO Nomenclature Committee.

Our work began where the greatest classical morphologists left off; their best work was the start of ours. As our work progressed, the rigidity of basic, previous embryological principles was broken down as scientific knowledge advanced. At the same time, the molecular, biological characterization of the cell surface receptor systems progressed enormously with the invention of numerous monoclonal antibodies. Thus, thymology became once again very important because the thymus is the first and central organ of the human immunological system. Then, the question of immuno-neuroendocrine regulation arose and has only been partially answered. Our book seeks to explore what has not been explored. The topic of thymic epithelial cells is a unique one and has never been explored in any previous book as it is explored in this one.

Only a handful of great thymologists remain in the world today, especially after the great loss the medical community suffered with the passing of Dr. Good, the list includes but is not limited to: Dr. Ritter and Dr. Kendall in England, Dr. Savino in Brazil, Dr. Dardenne in France, Dr. von Gaudecker in Germany, a few others in Belgium and Holland, and it is our hope that Dr. Bodey is among them. Nonetheless, a book on the thymus has not been written in the last five years and a book such as this one has never been. This book is based on a 30-year period of research and includes references from a broad range of sources spanning the globe and all sources, even those that were the beginning of thymic research. The book, thus, is uniquely well rounded, more so that previous works.

Dendritic Cells, 2nd Edition is the new edition of the extremely successful book published in 1998. With the volume of literature on dendritic cells doubling every year, it is almost impossible to keep up. This book provides the most up-to-date synthesis of the literature, written by the very best authors. It is essential reading for any scientist working in immunology, cell biology, infectious diseases, cancer, transplantation, genetic engineering, or the pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry.
* An entirely new section on DC biology is included in this edition. Also new to this edition are chapters on:
* Imaging
* Interaction of dendritic cells with viruses
* Dendritic cells and dendrikines, chemokines and the endothelium
* Molecules expressed in dendritic cells
* Role of dendritic cells in wound healing and atherosclerosis
* Delivery of apoptotic bodies
* Genetic engineering of dendritic cells
* Imaging
* Practical aspects of clinical protocol development

Senior scholar Alfred Tauber argues in this bold account that common approaches to the study of immunology are inherently flawed in its strict dichotomy of the self and non-self, or external invaders. The relationship between what is self and what is non-self is in reality a complex, dymanic, relational one. Autonomous agents are constantly in the midst of dialectical exchanges in which immunity mediates both noxious and benign encounters. Namely: rather than serving to defend an independent entity, immunity participates in an eco-system. Contemporary transplantation biology and autoimmunity have demonstrated phenomena that upset rigid adherence to the self/non-self dichotomy. Placing tolerant immune mechanisms within a broad ecological context has highlighted the balance of co-operative and competitive relationships in which immunity functions. By understanding immunity this way, as a 'symbiotic turn,' we come to see that immune reactivity (rejection or tolerance) is a second-order response to the cognitive functions of the immune system. Organisms have a complex capacity to respond to environment, and, through Tauber's insignts, we appreciate them more fully when we grasp the flexibility of the borders of organisms. After first providing an overview of the history of immunology, and explaining why the dominant understanding of it is incomplete and limiting, Tauber argues for this new approach to immunology and explains how it will usher in a new biology in which symbiosis is the rule, not the exception.

The availability of powerful genome-wide association study technology, during the last five years, has shown that most of the "new" MS susceptibility loci are immune-response genes. It is clear that there is much novelty in the field of MS immunology, which has served as an impetus to invest in new therapies. Notably, most if not all of these are immunotherapies. Even the equally exciting field of cell-based therapies and neuro-regeneration may well rely on cells or growth factors that are no less immunomodulators than restorative of myelin and neural cell function. Multiple Sclerosis Immunology looks at MS immunology as the basis for the present and-even more-the future of treatments for this complex autoimmune condition. Both editors are immunologists, as well as clinical neurologists, and appreciate the importance of a sustained dialogue between basic and clinical scientists to ensure that "translation" is real and not just virtual.

This volume gathers the leading research on antibody-drug conjugates and immunotoxins. Following a rigorous overview, the volume delves into focused sections on all aspects of ADCs and ITs from clinical development through to targeted therapeutic applications and the latest technologies.

The development of proteomic analyses using advanced mass spectrometry techniques has revolutionized the way proteins are studied, namely, as individual molecules within a complex system. HIV-1 Proteomics: From Discovery to Clinical Application comprehensively covers protein analysis from the early classic experimental days to current state-of-the-art HIV-1 proteomics in a clear informative style that brings expert-level understanding to the novice. Discussion of important clinical applications and future directions for the field also make this an ideal read for the expert. After finishing this book, the reader will have a complete and functional understanding of protein analysis from traditional biochemistry to modern proteomics.

Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) is the most common leukaemia in the Western world. It is also the prototype of B-cell chronic lymphoid malignancies and of their ramifications within the fields of hematology, immunology and oncology. For a long time the Cinderella of lymphoid malignancies CLL has now become the focus of major interest and an increasing number of investigators from different areas, including genetics, molecular biology, basic and applied immunology are becoming actively engaged in the investigation of CLL. Clinicians are considering CLL as a very interesting target of many projects which aim at translating the new and exciting developments of basic science into effective new approaches to the patient.

Clostridium difficile, a major nosocomial pathogen shown to be a primary cause of antibiotic-associated disease, has emerged as a highly transmissible and frequently antibiotic-resistant organism, causing a considerable burden on health care systems worldwide. In Clostridium difficile: Methods and Protocols, expert researchers bring together the most recently developed methods for studying the organism, including techniques involving isolation, molecular typing, genomics, genetic manipulation, and the use of animal models. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology (TM) series format, chapters include brief introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and notes highlighting tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Clostridium difficile: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal guide for scientists now in a position to gain an in-depth understanding of how this organism is transmitted and how it causes disease.

Aminopeptidase N (APN)/CD13 and dipeptidylpeptidase IV (DPIV)/CD26 are proteolytic enzymes with ubiquitous occurrence in the body of animals and men. Their physiological roles depend on the respective location: in gut and kidney tubules degradation of smaller proteins and peptides serves in absorption of nutrients or reabsorption of amino acids from urine. In the CNS their important substrates are biologically active peptides (e.g. enkephalins). This book, however, has a strong focus on the role APN and DPIV play in the hematopoietic system, where again signal peptides and small proteins (cytokines) are among the most interesting substrates. Additionally, both the membrane bound peptidases play roles as partners in signal transduction of lymphocytes and monocytes, and inhibition of their enzymatic activity results in cell cycle arrest, inhibition of DNA synthesis and characteristic changes of cytokine secretion pattern of T cells. This knowledge more and more is used as the base of therapeutic strategies in the treatment of a variety of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases as well as of tumors of different origin. The editors themselves with their colleagues have contributed important results about APN and DPIV that are reviewed here, and additionally, most of the leading groups in this field from Europe, U.S., Australia and Japan have contributed reviews and latest, partially unpublished results of their work. Researchers of many fields of biosciences and medicine will find interesting reading in the book and new impulse for basic research as well as for clinical applications.

Apoptosis is a form of cell death that occurs in a controlled manner and is generally noninflammatory in nature. Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, implies a cell death that is part of a normal physiological process of pruning of unneeded cells. However, many disease conditions utilize apoptosis for pathological ends, resulting in inappropriate cell death and tissue destruction. This book starts with an introduction that reviews the general characteristics of apoptosis, its regulation and its role in physiology and disease. Next, the book focuses on three areas as they relate to inflammatory cells and diseases. The first area consists of chapters on signals for apoptosis important to inflammatory cells, namely growth factors and arachidonic acid metabolism. The next area that the book focuses on are effects at the cellular level, on cell survival versus cell death and signals critical for cell function in both normal and disease states. These topics are covered in chapters on lymphocytes, granulocytes, chondrocytes and keratinocytes. The last area that the book focuses on are events at the level of tissue and disease, looking at the evidence for altered apoptosis and/or apoptotic processes in immune and inflammatory diseases. These topics are covered in chapters on rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, psoriasis and renal disease. Together, these chapters will provide the reader with the latest insight in the role of apoptosis in inflammatory cells and diseases. This book starts with an introduction that reviews the general characteristics of apoptosis, its regulation and its role in physiology and disease. Next, the book focuses on three areas as they relate to inflammatory cells and diseases. The first area consists of chapters on signals for apoptosis important to inflammatory cells, namely growth factors and arachidonic acid metabolism. The next area that the book focuses on are effects at the cellular level, on cell survival versus cell death and signals critical for cell function in both normal and disease states. These topics are covered in chapters on lymphocytes, granulocytes, chondrocytes and keratinocytes. The last area that the book focuses on are events at the level of tissue and disease, looking at the evidence for altered apoptosis and/or apoptotic processes in immune and inflammatory diseases. These topics are covered in chapters on rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, lupus, psoriasis and renal disease. Together, these chapters will provide the reader with the latest insight in the role of apoptosis in inflammatory cells and diseases.

A study of mast cells and basophils, designed for the use of immunologists, biochemists and medical researchers. Detailed chapters cover all aspects of mast cell and basophil research, from cell development, proteases, histamine, cysteinyl leukotrienes, physiology and pathology to the role of these cells in health and disease. Chapters also discuss the clinical implications of histamine receptor antagonists.

This biography probes the unusual mind, the dramatic life, and the outstanding scientific work of Danish-born immunologist Niels Jerne (1911-1994). Jerne's Nobel Prize-winning achievements in the field of immunology place him in the pantheon of great twentieth-century biomedical theorists, yet his life is perhaps even more interesting than his science. Science as Autobiography tells Jerne's story, weaving together a narrative of his life experiences, emotional life, and extraordinarily creative scientific work. A legendary figure who preferred an afternoon of conversation in a Paris wine bar to work in the laboratory, Jerne was renowned for his unparalleled powers of concentration and analytical keenness as well as his dissonant personal life. The book explores Jerne the man and scientist, making the fascinating argument that his life experience and view of himself became a metaphorical resource for the construction of his the ories. The book also probes the moral issues that surrounded Jerne's choice to sacrifice his family in favor of scientific goals and the pursuit of excellence.

The generation of tridimensional tissues, assembled from scaffolding materials populated with biologically functional cells, is the great challenge and hope of tissue bioengineering and regenerative medicine. The generation of biomaterials capable of harnessing the immune system has been particularly successful. This book provides a comprehensive view of how immune cells can be manipulated to suppresses inflammation, deliver vaccines, fight cancer cells, promote tissue regeneration or inhibit blood clotting and bacterial infections by functionally engineered biomaterials. However, long-lived polymers, such as those employed in orthopedic surgery or vascular stents, can often induce an immune reaction to their basic components. As a result, this book is also an important step towards coming to understand how to manipulate biomaterials to optimize their beneficial effects and downplay detrimental immune responses.

This book represents an essential reference manual for all of the well-characterized leukemia-lymphoma cell lines currently available. It provides the most important facts, using the succinct and user-friendly format that has made the FactsBooks so popular with scientists and clinical researchers. Introductory chapters provide background and perspective for culturing malignant hematopoietic (blood forming) cell lines. These chapters are followed by over 400 comprehensive individual entries. Each cell line entry highlights essential clinical, immunological, genetic, and functional features and includes a comprehensive listing of references.
Key Features
* the full spectrum of malignant cell lines from all hematopoietic cell lineages
* sister cell lines and relevant subclones
* clinical data: patient, diagnosis, treatment status, and specimen source
* authentication of derivation and availability
* immunophenotype
* cytogenetic karyotype
* translocations and fusion genes
* receptor gene rearrangements and genetic alterations
* cell cultures aspects: establishment, medium, doubling time, growth
* cytochemical profile
* cytokine production and response to cytokines
* proto-oncogene and transcription factor expression/alteration
* functional features: differentiation induction, heterotransplantability
* special unique features
* key references