Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is fundamental for physiological processes such as embryonic and postnatal development, wound repair, and reproductive functions.
Superantigens constitute a growing family of bacterial and viral proteins that share the capacity of inducing massive activation of the immune system. This volume contains contributions from leaders in the field of classical T cell superantigens and sheds light on relevant B cell superantigens at the molecular and biochemical levels. Moreover, articles in this publication deal with the emerging, intriguing possibility that immunoglobulin superantigens can activate primary effector cells of allergic disorders both in vitro and in vivo, thus acting as superallergens. A detailed account is also given of the biochemical, immunological and clinical characteristics of several endogenous, viral and bacterial superallergens, which are probably relevant in a variety of human diseases. This is the first volume to put together basic and clinical aspects of the classical T cell superantigens, B cell superantigens and superallergens. It will therefore be indispensable reading to basic and clinical immunologists, microbiologists, virologists and specialists in allergic and immune disorders.
This volume provides the reader with a comprehensive survey of the major aspects of human eosinophilic biology and immunology as well as the most clinically relevant aspects of eosinophil-related disorders. Expert contributions cover the ultrastructural and phenotypic characteristics of human eosinophils, and their fundamental biochemical features including receptors for IgE and chemokines. The production of cytokines and their role in the activation of eosinophils are reviewed. Furthermore, the classic eosinophil-related disorders such as hypereosinophilia, drug reactions, allergic disorders and some cardiovascular diseases are described. Each of the chapters is written by an investigator actively engaged in research on the topic under consideration. The material compiled in this volume will be of interest to all those working in allergology, immunology, biochemistry and pulmonary medicine.
Questa monografia è dedicata agli aspetti immunologici, clinici e terapeutici delle reazioni anafilattiche ed anafilattioidi. Il settore delle emergenze in Immunologia Clinica ed Allergologia rappresenta un tipico esempio del ruolo di scienza interdisciplinare che spetta all'Immunologia Clinica. Il volume comprende i contributi di studiosi dell'Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II presentati in occasione di un Aggiornamento sulle Emergenze in Immunologia Clinica tenutosi a Napoli il 3 maggio 1996.