Plasma membrane-associated channels known as gap junctions,
along with their protein building blocks connexins have an
important functional role in a range of immunological processes,
including heart function, cell growth and specialization, and early
development. Spanning basic science and potential clinical
applications, Connexin Cell Communication Channels: Roles in the
Immune System and Immunopathology assembles and synthesizes four
decades of the most important research carried out in this
field.
The book first provides a historical overview of the discovery
of these membrane channels in cells and tissues of the immune
system. It describes their general molecular and biological
characteristics and examines how they participate in the evolution,
organization, function, and regulation of leukocytes, as well as
their interaction with other tissues.
The next section examines immunologically related disease
scenarios where gap junctions and connexins have been shown to play
a fundamental role. The contributors explain how gap junctional
communication participates in the establishment and maintenance of
immunological properties such as antibody and cytokine production,
as well as lymphocyte immune surveillance in both physiological and
pathological conditions. The book explores the most important
technical approaches used and how they have been specially adapted
to answer key biological questions particular to the mobile nature
of leukocytes. It also describes the most recent understanding of
how gap junctions and connexins participate in antigen recognition,
cross-presentation, lymphocyte activation, and in the assembly and
function of the immunological synapse.
Finally, the book focuses on the latest progress made on
translating the knowledge gained to specific treatment modalities.
Topics in this section include approaches for reducing scarring and
cardiac arrhythmia, combating inflammation in the central nervous
system, and enhancing epithelial tissue repair. A comprehensive
view of achievements in this promising field, the book will inform
and update specialists, clinical practitioners, and those studying
the potential for commercial applications.
General
Is the information for this product incomplete, wrong or inappropriate?
Let us know about it.
Does this product have an incorrect or missing image?
Send us a new image.
Is this product missing categories?
Add more categories.
Review This Product
No reviews yet - be the first to create one!