This is the most comprehensive handbook on dendritic cells, featuring an introduction by Ralph M. Steinman and written by top experts. In three volumes, it covers all aspects from molecular cell biology to clinical applications, highlighting the role of dendritic cells in fighting cancer, virus infections, and autoimmune diseases.
The first section on cell biology looks at dendritic cell development, circulating cells, T cell priming, Th1 and Th2 decision and CTL priming. A second part on dendritic cells in disease deals with parasites, bacteria, viruses, autoimmunity, allergies, asthma and cancer. The final section on therapeutic applications includes viral infections and antigen delivery.

Epidermal Langerhans Cells focuses on epidermal Langerhans cells (LCs) and the important role they play in the induction of contact hypersensitivity and graft rejection. This in-depth work discusses how these antigen-presenting cells are modulated by various physicochemical agents (such as UV light) and how they can be infected by the AIDS virus. It also reveals that cytokines mediate their development into potent T cell-stimulatory dendritic cells. This comprehensive review covers important experimental details and methods, and fascinating information on LCs. It also provides an overview of the immune system as it relates to the skin in health and disease. This up-to-date publication is an indispensable resource for all investigative and clinical dermatologists, as well as immunologists interested in antigen-presenting cells.