The Third Aegean Conferences Workshop on Complement-Associated Diseases, Animal Models, and Therapeutics convened to discuss progress in complement research as it pertains to human disease pathogenesis and therapeutics. The rapid pace of research and new experimental approaches allow an integrated view of the in vivo biology of the complement system. This book collects writings on the functions of complement, pathophysiology, protein structures, design of complement inhibitors, and complement assays discussed at the conference.

Our body is not sterile and harbors enumerable microflora that are now being understood to play a complex role in immune regulation and shaping of the immune system in a continuous and dynamic way. In 8 chapters, Microbial Crosstalk with Immune System: New Insights in Therapeutics provides an overall introduction with special focus on how the immune system which is specifically geared to get rid of non-self-antigens, allows numerous microbes to colonize the human body. In the presence of microbes there are several observations that suggest that there are multiple roles that are played by these microbes in tumor progression and shaping of our immune system which is explained at length in subsequent chapters. Microbial Crosstalk with Immune System: New Insights in Therapeutics discusses the emerging mechanisms of immune-therapeutics as well as its limitations while emphasizing the potential role of microbes in shaping immune-therapeutic and evolving novel strategies to deal with any limitations.

During the past fifty years, thousands of natural products have been isolated from plants, fungi, and bacteria. Apart from intense searches by pharmaceutical companies for medicinals and the concentrated effort mounted by the National Cancer Institute, many of these have not been tested in biological systems. The major reasons for this appear to be, at least, twofold. First, individual researchers looking for biologically active natural products will often isolate only small amounts of material sufficient to determine a structure and calculate the specific activity for their particular bioassay systems: insufficient funds preclude re-isolating the compound unless industrial potential is foreseen. Second, the difficulty with which original structures were proved prior to 1972. This required the isolation of relatively large quantities of a natural product and there followed extensive degradation, elemental analyses of the parent and its fragments, then synthesis, piece by piece, of the molecule. All this took time and energy. No wonder that when the structure was proved the chemist was enervated. And coupled to this was the fact that many chemists were not trained to test their materials in biological systems. In contrast, today a natural product can be isolated, its mass and molecular formula determined and, if there is some serendipity, crystals may be obtained for single crystal x-ray analysis. If conditions are near perfect, it is possible to isolate and identify a novel compound in a month.

The knowledge of Th17 cells and other cell populations which secrete IL-17A, and/or IL-22 has expanded tremendously since the publication of the first edition "Th17 Cells: Role in Inflammation and Autoimmune Disease" in 2008. The present volume has been completely revised with the addition of new chapters on the IL-17 receptor family and signaling, and an in-depth review of IL-22 and innate lymphoid cells. The differentiation of na ve T cells into regulatory T cells and Th17 cells as well as the plasticity of Th17 cells is discussed. The role of IL-22 in cutaneous inflammation including psoriasis has been reviewed. In addition, the volume contains critical updates on autoimmunity, organ transplantation, tumor immunology and genetic mouse models for mechanistic studies. Lastly, the latest clinical progress in neutralizing antibodies to IL-17A, IL-17RA not only confirms the therapeutic promise foreseen in 2008, but also improves our knowledge of the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. In summary, this is a timely update and important review of the clinical and experimental aspects of IL-17, IL-22 and their producing cells.

Seventeen years after its initial description, nuclear factor-KB (NF-KB) endures as one of the most studied transcription factors. NF-KB has attracted widespread interest based on the variety of stimuli that activate it, the diverse genes and bio logical responses that it controls, the striking evolutionary conservation of struc ture and function among species, and its involvement in a variety of human diseases. The biochemical basis by which several stimuli converge to activate NF-KB has been largely elucidated during recent years. While first discovered as a key regulatory factor of the immune system, NF-KB is now recognized as an important player in the functioning of many organs and cell types. The ongoing examination of NF-KB signaling has revealed its ever expanding role in immune and inflammatory responses, but also in cancer and development. For this reason, numerous efforts are underway to develop safe inhibitors of NF-KB to be used in the treatment of both chronic and acute disease situations. The present book is the first to review and synthesize our knowledge of this interesting transcription factor. As such, the choice of subjects to review was daunting. To set the stage, an introductory chapter on activators and target genes, as well as the role they play in several responses, has been included."

This book provides an essential update on the startling array of novel insecticidal toxins and drugs produced by the fascinating bacterium Photorhabdus. The respective chapters describe everything from the detailed molecular biology of the 'Toxin complexes' or Tc's to the complexity of insect immune response in relation to both the bacterium and its nematode vector. The volume covers both primary (toxin production and regulation) and secondary (natural product synthesis and regulation) metabolism and emphasises the potential use of toxins and drugs in both agriculture and medicine. It also discusses in detail two totally novel quorum sensing mechanisms and the likely role of LuxR solos in sensing the presence of different bacterial hosts. Lastly, the book explores the unique case of P. asymbiotica, which seems to have evolved the ability to infect both insects and humans. This synthesis proves that Photorhabdus truly does offer a 'gold mine' for the discovery of novel insecticidal proteins and novel natural products with potential uses in agriculture and medicine alike.

 TOR, the Target of Rapamycin was discovered a little over ten years ago in a genetic screen in S. cerevisiae in search of mutants resistant to the cytostatic effects of the antimycotic, rapamycin. Recent studies have placed TOR at the interface between nutrient sensing and the regulation of major anbolic and catabolic responses. The editors have gathered the leading figures in the field of TOR and its role in cellular homeostasis and human diseases.

Silicone Gels as Adjuvants: Effects on Humoral and Cellmediated Immune Responses; J.O. Naim, C.J. van Oss The Effect of Molecular Weight and Gel Preparation on Humoral Adjuvancy of Silicone Oils and Silicone Gels; J.O. Naim, C.J. van Oss Glucans as Immunological Adjuvants; N. Mohagheghpour, et al. Copolymer Adjuvants; R.N. Brey Regulation of Il4 and Il5 Secretion by Histamine and PGE2; M.M. Khan Immunoglobulin Isotype Modulation after Administration of Il12; V. Van Cleave, et al. Substance P Mediated Stimulation of Cytokine Levels in Cultured Murine Bone Marrow Stromal Cells; J.M. Manske, et al. Malaria Transmissionblocking Immunity: Identification of Epitopes and Evaluation of Immunogenicity; N. Kumar, et al. Experimental Feline Lyme Borreliosis As a Model for Testing Borrelia burgdorferi Vaccines; M.D. Gibson, et al. Liposoma Vaccines; S. Green, et al. Protection Strategies against Botulinum Toxin; L. Middlebrook Collagen Arthritis in T Cell Receptor Congenic Mice: A Unique Approach to Study the Role of T Cell Receptor Genotypes in Autoimmune Arthritis; G.H.H. Nabozny, C.S. David The Blood-Brain Barrier in Virusinduced Demyelination; C.J.R. Welsh, et al. 14 additional articles. Index.

Cytokine involvement in the immune system's response to stress is now very well documented. Cytokine activity has been implicated in a variety of mental and physical diseases, and has been shown to have a significant role in fueling the vicious circle of depression and illness. The first edition of Cytokines: Stress and Immunity pointed out that the immune system does not stand alone, but is profoundly affected by other organ systems, especially the central nervous and the neuroendocrine systems, with cytokines being the common tool of communication. This edition continues on the trailblazing path of the original to once again present current research that informs our evolving understanding of how cytokines function and the clinical implications of cytokine activity. Completely rewritten by the top authorities in their fields, this volume includes 16 entirely new chapters, which document dramatic new developments. It provides a comprehensive overview of the role of cytokines in the neuroendocrine and immune systems, while also addressing the interactions between these systems. It examines cytokine activity and clinical implications from a number of perspectives, including those of immunology, pharmacology, oncology, endocrinology, and psychiatry. Researchers involved with the most specific aspects of cell signaling as well clinicians dealing with the effects of immunosuppression-related diseases will find a wealth of interesting and instantly applicable information. This new edition begins with an extended dedication and tribute to the late Robert A. Good, the father of modern immunology. It documents the life and groundbreaking achievements of Dr. Good who served as an editor for boththe former and current editions of this work.

Complex molecular mechanisms involving microbiology and immunology define the host-pathogen relationship. These mechanisms can be the basis for new drugs and vaccine design. This book provides information on the molecular interactions between host cell organelles and pathogens, which have developed strategies to survive within infected cells. Chapters are grouped into five sections: I. Endocytosis and phagocytosis. Collectively, the chapters of this section review basic knowledge regarding intracellular organelles are involved in membrane interactions with pathogen-containing vacuoles. II. Professional and non-professional phagocytes. Here the authors describe the major differences between the two host cell types, which can be infected by microorganisms. III. Maturation pathways of bacteria-containing vacuoles. Molecular interactions between vacuoles and intracellular organelles leading to the search of the Holy Grail, the replication niche, are described. IV. Host response. Host cells are able to react against intruders and eventually mount host responses. In these chapters the various types of host response mechanisms against intracellular intruders are reviewed. V. knowledge of bacteria-host cell interactions will be acquired fast enough to find the necessary tools for controlling microorganism development. This comprehensive book should appeal to scientists interested in cell biology, microbiology and immunology, as well as to clinically-oriented investigators concerned with infectious diseases.

Our own experience shows that there is no simple, yet of good scientific and clinical quality guide for practitioners and patients on gastrointestinal diseases. In the proposed book we will cover a vast area in the field, from GI tract physiology to disease diagnosis and treatment, in a comprehensive and approachable manner. The guide will not replace online resources (often used by patients) or specialized editions addressing experienced medical doctors, but rather fill the gap between those two. Our aim is to design this book so that it appeals to a wider audience; yet - if needed - encourages to explore the field further.

In this issue of Infectious Disease Clinics of North America, guest editors Drs. Rachel Bender Ignacio and Rajesh T. Gandhi bring their considerable expertise to the topic of COVID-19 Infection. The evolving virology, wide range of symptoms, long-term health issues, mortality rate, effect on hospitals, and high transmission rate have made COVID-19 one of the worst health crises in recent times. In this issue, top experts in the field address key issues such as diagnostic testing, COVID-19 in pediatrics, post-acute sequelae, infection control, and much more, aiming to arm clinicians with the information they need to combat this deadly infection. Contains 15 relevant, practice-oriented topics including COVID-19 and global pandemic response, SARS CoV-2 transmission and prevention, COVID-19 Vaccines, COVID-19 treatment, equity and racial/ethnic disparities, and more. Provides in-depth clinical reviews on COVID-19, offering actionable insights for clinical practice. Presents the latest information on this timely, focused topic under the leadership of experienced editors in the field. Authors synthesize and distill the latest research and practice guidelines to create clinically significant, topic-based reviews.

Nanotheranostics for Treatment and Diagnosis of Infectious Diseases comprises the latest information on the technological advancements made in the field of nanotechnology for application in therapeutics with diagnostic applications. The book focuses on the theranostic applications of nanomaterials in infectious diseases, highlighting that rapid diagnosis, safe and effective treatment and strong preventive measures like vaccines are urgently needed. It compiles all relevant information to help scientists, researchers and students understand the role of nanomaterials, how nanomaterials could be explored simultaneously for therapeutic and diagnostic applications, and how to ensure safety and efficacy of these nanomaterials. Sections cover fundamental concepts, emerging concerns and challenges to combat infectious diseases, the characterization of nanomaterials for theranostic applications, and the toxicity, biocompatibility and regulatory perspectives in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases.

To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the discovery of Natural Killer (NK) cells, this volume focuses on the recent advances in our understanding of NK cell development and differentiation and their acquisition of functional properties, as well as the latest models for NK-cell analysis in mice and applications in clinical medicine. NK cells have travelled a circuitous path from their initial description as 'spontaneous killers' (for some simply an experimental artifact) to being a bona fide subset of innate lymphoid cells with a complementary mode of action in immune defense and an important mediator of immune reactivity in health and disease. Together, these reviews provide a timely and concise picture of the evolution of NK cells as essential agents in immunity and as potent weapons against disease. This book offers an appealing and insightful resource for scientists and clinicians.

Unlike detecting constitutively expressed targets, immunohistochemical detection of labile, low abundance, and short-lived signal transduction molecules can be a very difficult task. In Signal Transduction Immunohistochemistry: Methods and Protocols, IHC experts contribute detailed protocols addressing the numerous challenges of signal-transduction immunohistochemistry (ST-IHC). Beginning with a set of introductory chapters, the volume moves on to cover techniques used for the preservation of antigens and their unmasking, protocols in digital imaging and image analysis of stained cells and tissues, high-throughput data collection and data analysis, and techniques used in neuroscience as well as cancer and stem cell research. 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 tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Signal Transduction Immunohistochemistry: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal guide for novices and as a bastion of inspiring ideas to be exploited by experienced researchers on the lookout for new experimental tricks and hints.

This book presents a detailed overview of the development of new viral vector-based vaccines before discussing two major applications: preventive vaccines for infectious diseases and therapeutic cancer vaccines. Viral vector-based vaccines hold a great potential for development into successful pharmaceutical products and several examples at the advanced pre-clinical or clinical stage are presented. Nevertheless, the most efforts were focused on novel and very innovative technologies for new generation of vector-based vaccines. Furthermore, specific topics such as delivery and adjuvant and protection strategies for cell-mediated-based vaccines are presented. Given its scope, the book is a "must read" for all those involved in vaccine development, both in academia and industrial vaccine development.

This volume provides a modern look on the age-old influenza infection and the preventive role of anti-influenza shots. Influenza pandemic outbreaks are unrelenting despite the growing understanding of the molecular basis of viral infection and its spreads. A leap in medical technologies has revolutionized the design of new influenza vaccines. The chapters cover vaccination strategies in various age-groups of people and provide the extensive amount of knowledge on the immune response to influenza vaccination in a spectrum of disease conditions.

In recent years, major developments have increased understanding of various genetic and epigenetic regulatory processes that are critical for the generation of B cell repertoires. These include the role of chromatin regulation and nuclear organization in understating the IgH gene regulation. These proceedings highlight recent developments in lymphocyte development, Ig gene rearrangements and somatic hypermutation, chromatin structure modification, B lymphocyte signaling and fate, receptor editing, and autoimmunity.

Derek T. O'Hagan and a team of expert vaccinologists and pharmacologists thoroughly describe the preparation, characterization, and evaluation of a wide range of alternative vaccine adjuvants for use in preclinical studies. Each chapter carefully reviews a single adjuvant, and suggests why a specific adjuvant might be preferred for a given antigen, depending on what type of immune response is desired. Alternate adjuvant choices are also presented so that researchers can choose those most efficacious for their specific purpose. Comprehensive and highly practical, Vaccine Adjuvants: Preparation Methods and Research Protocols provides an effective guide to making and using vaccine adjuvants. By closely following directions from the book, today's researchers will be able optimally to induce specific immune responses against different types of antigens and to selectively manipulate the immune response in a favorable way.

Victor P. Bulgakov, Yuri N. Shkryl, Galina N. Veremeichik, Tatiana Y. Gorpenchenko and Yuliya V. Vereshchagina: Recent Advances in the Understanding of Agrobacterium rhizogenes-Derived Genes and Their Effects on Stress Resistance and Plant Metabolism. Le Zhao, Guy W. Sander and Jacqueline V. Shanks: Perspectives of the Metabolic Engineering of Terpenoid Indole Alkaloids in Catharanthus roseus Hairy Roots. Jian Wen Wang and Jian Yong Wu: Effective Elicitors and Process Strategies for Enhancement of Secondary Metabolite Production in Hairy Root Cultures. Amanda R. Stiles and Chun-Zhao Liu: Hairy Root Culture: Bioreactor Design and Process Intensification. Marina Skarjinskaia, Karen Ruby, Adriana Araujo, Karina Taylor, Vengadesan Gopalasamy-Raju, Konstantin Musiychuk, Jessica A. Chichester, Gene A. Palmer, Patricia de la Rosa, Vadim Mett, Natalia Ugulava, Stephen J. Streatfield and Vidadi Yusibov: Hairy Roots as a Vaccine Production and Delivery System. Zahwa Al-Shalabi and Pauline M. Doran: Metal Uptake and Nanoparticle Synthesis in Hairy Root Cultures.

Immunotherapy began in 1774 when the Dorset farmer Benjamin Jesty inoculated his wife and two sons with the pus from the teat of a cow suffering from cow pox, using his wife's knitting needle as a vaccinating implement. It has made slow progress. Meanwhile the science of Immunology has burgeoned so much that if all immunologists read every page of the Journal of Immunology, let alone the other Immunology journals, then they would have no time left to write for it. I am pleased that some of them have found the time to write for this volume. In spite of the rapid expansion in immuno logical knowledge and the undreamt of complexity of the immune system that has been unravelled, immunologists have remained until recently erudite but therapeutically effete. Indeed anyone purporting to treat disease by immuno logical methods has been in danger of being labelled a quack or a crackpot. Happily things are changing. The nine chapters of this volume detail nine quite different approaches to manipulating the immune system for therapeutic benefit. All are experimental and they have been attended with greater or lesser degrees of success. In some cases their main effect has been to elucidate the complexity of the problem. On the other hand, there are people alive and well today as a result of these approaches who would otherwise have perished. Immunotherapy is here to stay and it can only get better."

Blood Cell Biochemistry was initially conceived as part of the Plenum series Subcellular Biochemistry, from which it has developed into a separate series. The present volume is devoted primarily to contributions on megakaryocytes and platelets and, to a lesser extent, to macrophages and eosinophils. The book does not attempt a rigorous or total coverage of the particular topics; it represents the areas of current scientific activity and interest that were selected by the editor at the commencement of this project. In general, the approach has been similar to that adopted for Volume 1 of the series (Erythroid Cells); the same approach will be followed subsequently in Volume 3 (Lymphocytes and Granulocytes). This book opens with a developmentally oriented chapter by Janine Breton-Gorius on megakaryocyte maturation and platelet release in normal conditions, which serves to set the scene ultrastructurally for much of the data that follow. The biosynthesis and process ing of platelet glycoproteins in megakaryocytes is dealt with by Alain Duperray and his colleagues, and thereby provides an in-depth biochemical survey of the megakaryocyte. The applications and strengths of crossed immunoelectrophoresis for the study of platelet membrane proteins is then covered by Simon Karpatkin, and a detailed account of the heredity disorders of platelet function is provided by Francine Rendu and Evelyne Dupuy."

Haemodynamics and Immune Defence: Discoveries in Pharmacology, Second Edition, Volume Three presents selected articles from the historic Discoveries in Pharmacology series that are enhanced with commentary from contemporary scholars who discuss the reception and importance of each chapter along with an updated bibliography on the subject and contributions from those involved in Nobel Prize winning discoveries and pioneering advancements in Pharmacology. This volume brings forth discussions on key discoveries in hemodynamics and immune defense, including chapters on penicillin by Dr. Selwyn and asthma by Dr. Brocklehurst. Academic and industry researchers in pharmacology and medicine, as well as advanced students in the area, will find this useful teaching tool and launch to new discoveries. Chapters can also be used to supplement course material in pharmacology and medical courses. It will also be of interest to those who are interested in the history of medicine.