Edited by Christopher D. Gregory

In this timely and important work, an international group of leading investigators takes a close and critical look at programmed cell death and its role in the development, function, and maintenance of the immune system. Along with covering the primary actions of apoptosis, the contributors probe its role in carcinogenesis and HIV-induced pathogenesis. By offering a broad range of views, Apoptosis and the Immune Response presents a current and complete picture of the various aspects and consequences of this phenomenon.

Apoptosis and the Immune Response begins with the theories surrounding apoptosis and then covers its basic mechanisms including the morphologic, biochemical, and genetic features. The book offers authoritative discussions on the role of apoptosis in the deletion of self-reactive lymphocytes, prevention of autoimmunity, termination of the immune response, death of T cells infected by the HIV virus, neoplasia, and the homeostatic regulation of the hematopoietic system.

In particular, this excellent reference critiques such topics as:

• Apoptosis in thymocytes in vivo and in vitro
• Bcl-2/T-cell transgenics
• The role of c-myc
• Fas/APO-1 antigens and their roles
• Transgenic models of B-cell tolerance and autoimmunity
• How apoptosis affects the pathogenesis of AIDS and the implications for therapy
• Triggers for apoptosis and survival
• Recognition of apoptotic cells by phagocytes
• Apoptosis in peritoneal autoreactive CD5+ B cells
• and more

With its diverse expertise and timely, clear-cut insights, Apoptosis and the Immune Response will prove to be an invaluable resource for immunologists, cell and developmental biologists, hematologists, and oncologists—as well as graduate students.

Cover Design: Janice Noto-Helmers