Bücher der Reihe Progress in Inflammation Research

It is now accepted that T cell activation by an antigen-presenting cell requires the organization of a supramolecular structure ¿ the immune synapse. This structure, with different types of molecules spatially segregated, is involved in the delivery of quantitative and qualitative signals critical for T cell activation, and therefore in controlling the nature of the immune response. This volume discusses the progress in manipulating components of the immune synapse as a strategy to regulate the immune response in immune pathology, such as transplantation, autoimmunity and allergy. Donnadieu reviews the current knowledge on the molecular composition and organization of the immune synapse and how the formation of this structure can be modulated by chemokines. It is also known that the immune synapse formation is critical for the activation of naive T cells, as well as their functional polarization. The second chapter discusses the conversion of naive T cells into regulatory T cells (Treg) when components of the immune synapse are manipulated in such a way that the T cells receive suboptimal activation signals.

This edited collection of 12 chapters by research workers from a wide range of disciplines resolves the confusion that currently surrounds the "e;hygiene hypothesis"e; by considering the human need for exposure to microorganisms from an evolutionary point of view.  The book explains why we evolved a requirement for exposure to microbiota from our mothers, from other people, and from the natural environment. It also explains the physiological roles of these exposures, what goes wrong when the exposures are distorted and how human lifestyles and activities, including degradation of the natural environment, are leading to this distortion.  Particular attention is given to the range of pathologies associated with inappropriate microbial exposures and inappropriate colonization, including immunoregulatory problems such as allergies and autoimmunity, metabolic problems such as obesity and diabetes, and problems of central nervous system function and neurodegeneration.  This book is of profound relevance to most medical disciplines, but also to those concerned with preserving the natural environment and with developing healthier urbanisation.

Although the potential for immunomodulation has been recognized for many years there has been an explosion of data in this field with relevance especially to the treatment of chronic airway diseases. Most of the work in this field has been conducted by Japanese investigators but in the last decade there has been a body of work outside of Japan that supports and enhances these findings. The book covers basic research like effects on bacteria, anti-inflammatory and mucoregulatory effects, but also clinical results with up-to-date information for the use of such medications to potentially treat diseases as diverse as chronic airway diseases, arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and cancer. The volume is intended for pulmonary physicians, researchers in inflammation research, and pharmaceutical companies interested in the development of such agents. It provides background information for the clinician as well as in depth exploration of cutting edge science.

Imaging Inflammation provides updates on cutting-edge imaging methods being applied to problems in inflammation research. From state-of-the-art research tools to diagnostic tests, and from single-cell to whole-body imaging, this volume offers a comprehensive overview of how imaging experts across a range of disciplines are expanding our understanding of inflammation and immunity.

For over 50 years, clinicians have known that macrolide antibiotics have effects on inflammation and the immune system that are not related to their antimicrobial properties. These immunomodulatory properties, best described for treating inflammatory airway diseases, protect the lung and the host and improve clinical status. This book summarizes our current knowledge regarding proposed mechanisms for these properties, established clinical results, and what the future may hold with emphasis on novel clinical applications and the fascinating development of non-antimicrobial macrolides with preserved and enhanced immunomodulatory properties.