Colony-Stimulating Factors


Book Description

Concentrating on proven data and adopting a structure-function approach, this text provides grounding for an intricate understanding of the molecular biology, physiological mechanisms, and routine clinical use in disease settings of colony-stimulating factors (CSFs). This edition includes eight additional chapters, with updates of recently-discovered and established CSFs, each indexed individually.




Modern Trends in Human Leukemia IX


Book Description

This volume provides a comprehensive account of the most recent trends in human leukemia, as presented at the Ninth Wilsede Meeting. The internationally renowned contributors deal with all different aspects of these diseases: As well as discussing important clinical aspects of leukemia, new information on the biological basis of leukemia gained using the methods of molecular genetics, cell and molecular biology, virology, and immunology is covered. The book shows both the complexity of leukemia research, as well as the value of basic scientific research in furthering clinical medicine and therapy.




Formulation, Characterization, and Stability of Protein Drugs


Book Description

Leading scientists offer detailed profiles of ten protein drugs currently in development. The case histories of these important new compounds are described from the perspective of their formulation, characterization, and stability. This ready reference also features recent data and an abundance of previously unpublished information. The in-depth coverage includes a highly useful compendium of degradation sites occurring in over 70 proteins. An invaluable aid in the rapid identification of potential `hot spots' in proteins, this accessible compilation allows for inspection of the protein's primary structure and preparation of a hydroflex plot.




Modification of Radiation Response


Book Description

This book describes and summarizes the radiation responses of both normal and neoplastic tissues with a focus on rational strategies for the modification of these responses. Emerging data from molecular oncology and radiobiology are reviewed in depth. The book covers not only general principles of radiation-induced reactions but also a large number of preclinical and clinical data that will guide the reader through this complex and dynamic field and will provide valuable information for the development of further research projects.




Safety of Biologics Therapy


Book Description

This long overdue title provides a comprehensive, up-to-date, state-of-the art review of approved biologic therapies, with coverage of mechanisms of action, Indications for therapy, immunogenicity and a detailed examination of adverse effects and safety of the many and diverse therapeutic agents presented in a total of 13 chapters. It is predicted that by 2016, biologics will make up half of the world's 20 top-selling drugs and by 2018, biologic medicine sales will account for almost half of the world's 100 biggest selling drugs. Recombinant proteins dominate the growing list of the more than 200 approved biotherapeutic agents with targeted antibodies, fusion proteins and receptors; cytokines; hormones; enzymes; proteins involved in blood-clotting, homeostasis and thrombosis; vaccines; botulinum neurotoxins; and, more recently, biosimilar preparations, comprising the majority of approved biologics. Written with clinicians, other health care professionals, and researchers in mind, Safety of Biologics Therapy examines, in a single volume, the full range of issues surrounding the safety of approved biologic therapies. A good understanding of the risks and safety issues of modern biologics therapy is increasingly being demanded of all those connected with their development, handling, prescribing, administration and subsequent patient management. In addition to being of great value to clinicians in all branches of medicine, and to nurses, pharmacists and researchers, this book will prove invaluable for students taking undergraduate and graduate courses in the above disciplines and in the biomedical sciences.




Avian Immunology


Book Description

The second edition of Avian Immunology provides an up-to-date overview of the current knowledge of avian immunology. From the ontogeny of the avian immune system to practical application in vaccinology, the book encompasses all aspects of innate and adaptive immunity in chickens. In addition, chapters are devoted to the immunology of other commercially important species such as turkeys and ducks, and to ecoimmunology summarizing the knowledge of immune responses in free-living birds often in relation to reproductive success. The book contains a detailed description of the avian innate immune system, encompassing the mucosal, enteric, respiratory and reproductive systems. The diseases and disorders it covers include immunodepressive diseases and immune evasion, autoimmune diseases, and tumors of the immune system. Practical aspects of vaccination are examined as well. Extensive appendices summarize resources for scientists including cell lines, inbred chicken lines, cytokines, chemokines, and monoclonal antibodies. The world-wide importance of poultry protein for the human diet, as well as the threat of avian influenza pandemics like H5N1 and heavy reliance on vaccination to protect commercial flocks makes this book a vital resource. This book provides crucial information not only for poultry health professionals and avian biologists, but also for comparative and veterinary immunologists, graduate students and veterinary students with an interest in avian immunology. - With contributions from 33 of the foremost international experts in the field, this book provides the most up-to-date review of avian immunology so far - Contains a detailed description of the avian innate immune system reviewing constitutive barriers, chemical and cellular responses; it includes a comprehensive review of avian Toll-like receptors - Contains a wide-ranging review of the "ecoimmunology" of free-living avian species, as applied to studies of population dynamics, and reviews methods and resources available for carrying out such research




Military Strategies for Sustainment of Nutrition and Immune Function in the Field


Book Description

Every aspect of immune function and host defense is dependent upon a proper supply and balance of nutrients. Severe malnutrition can cause significant alteration in immune response, but even subclinical deficits may be associated with an impaired immune response, and an increased risk of infection. Infectious diseases have accounted for more off-duty days during major wars than combat wounds or nonbattle injuries. Combined stressors may reduce the normal ability of soldiers to resist pathogens, increase their susceptibility to biological warfare agents, and reduce the effectiveness of vaccines intended to protect them. There is also a concern with the inappropriate use of dietary supplements. This book, one of a series, examines the impact of various types of stressors and the role of specific dietary nutrients in maintaining immune function of military personnel in the field. It reviews the impact of compromised nutrition status on immune function; the interaction of health, exercise, and stress (both physical and psychological) in immune function; and the role of nutritional supplements and newer biotechnology methods reported to enhance immune function. The first part of the book contains the committee's workshop summary and evaluation of ongoing research by Army scientists on immune status in special forces troops, responses to the Army's questions, conclusions, and recommendations. The rest of the book contains papers contributed by workshop speakers, grouped under such broad topics as an introduction to what is known about immune function, the assessment of immune function, the effect of nutrition, and the relation between the many and varied stresses encountered by military personnel and their effect on health.




Nijkamp and Parnham's Principles of Immunopharmacology


Book Description

Principles of Immunopharmacology provides a unique source of essential knowledge on the immune response, its diagnosis and its modification by drugs and chemicals. The 4th edition of this internationally recognized textbook has been revised to include recent developments, but continues the established format, dealing with four related fields in a single volume, thus obviating the need to refer to several different textbooks. The first section of the book, providing a basic introduction to immunology and its relevance for human disease, has been updated to accommodate new immunological concepts, particularly the role of epigenetics and the latest understanding of cancer immunology. The second section on immunodiagnostics offers a topical description of widely used molecular techniques and a new chapter on imaging techniques. This is followed by a systematic coverage of drugs affecting the immune system, including natural products. This third section contains 15 updated chapters, covering classical immunopharmacological topics such as anti-asthmatic, anti-rheumatic and immunosuppressive drugs, but also deals with antibiotics, plant-derived and dietary agents, with new chapters on monoclonal antibodies, immunotherapy in sepsis and infection, drugs for soft-tissue autoimmunity and cell therapy. The book concludes with a chapter on immunotoxicology and drug safety tests. Aids to the reader include a two-column format, glossaries of technical terms and appendix reference tables. The emphasis on illustrations is maintained from the first three editions. The book is a valuable single reference for undergraduate and graduate medical and biomedical students, postgraduate chemistry and pharmacy students, researchers in chemistry, biochemistry and the pharmaceutical industry and researchers lacking basic immunological knowledge, who want to understand the actions of drugs on the immune system.




Lung Epithelial Biology in the Pathogenesis of Pulmonary Disease


Book Description

Lung Epithelial Biology in the Pathogenesis of Pulmonary Disease provides a one-stop resource capturing developments in lung epithelial biology related to basic physiology, pathophysiology, and links to human disease. The book provides access to knowledge of molecular and cellular aspects of lung homeostasis and repair, including the molecular basis of lung epithelial intercellular communication and lung epithelial channels and transporters. Also included is coverage of lung epithelial biology as it relates to fluid balance, basic ion/fluid molecular processes, and human disease. Useful to physician and clinical scientists, the contents of this book compile the important and most current findings about the role of epithelial cells in lung disease. Medical and graduate students, postdoctoral and clinical fellows, as well as clinicians interested in the mechanistic basis for lung disease will benefit from the books examination of principles of lung epithelium functions in physiological condition. - Provides a single source of information on lung epithelial junctions and transporters - Discusses of the role of the epithelium in lung homeostasis and disease - Includes capsule summaries of main conclusions as well as highlights of future directions in the field - Covers the mechanistic basis for lung disease for a range of audiences




Immunology for Pharmacy - E-Book


Book Description

With a new pharmacy-specific approach to immunology, Immunology for Pharmacy prepares pharmacists for practice by providing a complete understanding of the basis of immunology and the consequences of either suppressing or enhancing immune function. It covers key subjects such as prophylaxis and vaccination, antibodies as therapeutic and diagnostic agents, biological modifiers, and the rationale for use and mechanisms of therapeutic agents. Written by experienced author and educator Dennis Flaherty, this book presents topics with a logical, step-by-step approach, explaining concepts and their practical application. A companion Evolve website reinforces your understanding with flashcards and animations. - Pharmacy-specific coverage narrows the broad field of immunology to those areas most pertinent and clinically relevant to pharmacy students. - 165 full-color illustrations help to illuminate difficult concepts. - Factors That Influence the Immune Response chapter covers biological agents including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, and their related toxins and how they relate to the immune system. - Three chapters on vaccinations prepare you for this important part of the pharmacist's role by discussing cancer treatment with whole tumor vaccines, cell vaccines, and viral vector vaccines, describing other vaccines such as recombinant vaccines and plant vaccines, and examining how diseases such as diphtheria, whooping cough, and tetanus respond to vaccinations. - A summary of drugs used in treating each condition helps you understand typical treatments and their immunological mechanisms, so you can choose proper treatments. - Integrated information makes it easier to understand how various parts of the immune system work together, leading to a better understanding of immunology as a whole. - A unique focus on practical application and critical thinking shows the interrelationship of concepts and makes it easier to apply theory to practice. - Information on AIDS covers the identification and treatment of both strains of HIV as well as AIDS, preparing you for diseases you will see in practice. - Unique student-friendly features simplify your study with learning objectives and key terms at the beginning of each chapter, bulleted summaries and self-assessment questions at the end of each chapter, and a glossary at the back of the book. - Over 60 tables summarize and provide quick reference to important material. - A companion Evolve website includes animations and pharmacy terminology flashcards.