Overview
The book focuses on three major aspects of bacterial superantigens. First, the crystal structure of two of them was resolved recently and their characteristics are described comprehensively. The book integrates the available data on mutagenesis, biochemistry and crystallography of superantigens. One chapter describes recent data on crystal structure of superantigens complexed with their receptor, the MHC class II molecule. Second, the book deals with the function and the effects on the immune system of these molecules in vivo and in vitro. Third, these immunomodulatory properties have been used effectively in cancer therapy. One chapter shows the relevance of superantigens in tumor therapy. The field of superantigens is booming, and this volume will be of interest to all researchers in this field.
The book contains predominantly black-and-white illustrations, with some color illustrations.
Editorials
Robert B. Fritz
This book is a collection of articles written by multiple authors on the subject of bacterial superantigens. The title describes the content of the book very well. The purpose is to review the current state of knowledge of the structure and function of bacterial superantigens. This area is of intense interest because these molecules are highly immunomodulatory and may be directly involved in toxic shock via cytokine pathways, in immune suppression, and in induction of autoimmunity depending on the particular bacterial product. This book is targeted primarily for bacteriologists, immunologists, and cell biologists. It will be useful as a reference for those actively involved in study of the immune system and those interested in the interaction of the immune system with the bacterial world. The book contains well-selected illustrations and tables necessary to illustrate the concepts involved. The chapters are well-referenced. The table of contents is excellent; however, the index is barely adequate. This is a useful reference book for health professionals in the area of immunology, bacteriology, and host-parasite interactions.Booknews
Although the field of superantigens (SAgs) has boomed in recent years, the function of these proteins in bacterial infection remains elusive. This volume begins with a brief introduction, followed by 15 chapters. Among the topics are structural studies of streptococcal pyrogenic exotoxin superantigens; Yersinia infection--the virulence determinants and SAgs they produce; structural features of T cell receptor recognition of SAgs; the pathophysiology of bacterial SAgs in vivo; and antibody targeted SAgs in experimental tumor therapy. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)From The Critics
Reviewer: Robert B. Fritz, PhD(Medical College of Wisconsin)Description: This book is a collection of articles written by multiple authors on the subject of bacterial superantigens. The title describes the content of the book very well.
Purpose: The purpose is to review the current state of knowledge of the structure and function of bacterial superantigens. This area is of intense interest because these molecules are highly immunomodulatory and may be directly involved in toxic shock via cytokine pathways, in immune suppression, and in induction of autoimmunity depending on the particular bacterial product.
Audience: This book is targeted primarily for bacteriologists, immunologists, and cell biologists. It will be useful as a reference for those actively involved in study of the immune system and those interested in the interaction of the immune system with the bacterial world.
Features: The book contains well-selected illustrations and tables necessary to illustrate the concepts involved. The chapters are well-referenced. The table of contents is excellent; however, the index is barely adequate.
Assessment: This is a useful reference book for health professionals in the area of immunology, bacteriology, and host-parasite interactions.
3 Stars from Doody