Immunology [antikvár]

Preface Since the last edition of the Immunology Scope Monograph, tremendous advances have been made in our understanding of the immune system. These advances include the elucidation of the mechanisms by which antibody diversity is generated; the discovery of two distinct T-lymphocyte antigen receptors and the cloning of their genes; the definition of the crystalline structure of the HLA class I molecule; the demonstration that major histocompatibility complex class II molecules can directly bind peptides derived from exogenous antigens; the cloning of the genes encoding the interleukin molecules by which immune cells communicate; and the production of interleu-kins in sufficient quantities to allow their biological effects to be readily studied. Despite these incredible advances, manipulation of the immune system remains a major challenge. Several diseases are now directly attributed to an overly exuberant immune response, while others can be traced to the inability to mount an adequate immune response. The introduction of AIDS into our society has made commonplace the ravages of immunodeficiency previously seen only in rare congenital defects, underscoring the importance of the immune system in protecting us from our environment. The Immunology Scope Monograph presents an overview summarizing our current knowledge of the elements of the immune system and their interactions at the molecular and cellular levels. The monograph also illustrates in clinical terms the consequences of the disruption of these interactions. This book is designed to convey to the reader not only this knowledge but also the excitement so prevalent in contemporary immunology, as the pace of discovery and advances continues to accelerate. It is hoped that, by making the reader aware of the challenges remaining in immunology, this monograph will entice the interested reader to acquire the skills necessary to successfully manipulate the immune system. Only through the acquisition of these skills will future generations of physicians and scientists realize the full benefit of immune therapy on disease. Benjamin D. Schwartz, MD, PhD Editor-in-Chief