Author: Sudhir Gupta
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1489902740
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 268
Book Description
Since programmed cell death was first described in insects in 1964 and apoptosis was described in 1972, rapid progress has been made in understanding the basic mechanisms and genes regulating programmed cell death and apoptosis. In addition, defects in various genes regulating programmed cell death have been delineated in several experimental models of human diseases. This volume surveys various aspects of these rapidly developing areas of research in programmed cell death/apoptosis. This volume should be of interest to basic immunologists and molecular biologists. The volume begins with a historical perspective of cell death. The remainder of the volume is divided into four different parts. Part I deals with the signaling pathways in apoptosis, including cell cycle control of apoptosis, role of ceramide in apoptosis, role of antibody signaling, and biochemical regulation of apoptosis. The mechanisms for recognition of apoptotic lymphocytes by macrophages are also reviewed. Part II examines the role of various genes that regulate apoptosis, including the role ofFas, FasL, and other TNF family members in apoptosis and homeostatic regulation of immune response. Recently described splice variants and their influence on apoptosis are also reviewed, and the role of the members of the Bcl-2 family in apoptosis is discussed in detail. Part III reviews various aspects of apoptosis in B lymphocytes, including mechanisms that regulate apoptosis/survival of B lymphocytes and the regulation of Fas-mediated apoptosis in B lymphocytes.
Mechanisms of Lymphocyte Activation and Immune Regulation VI
Author: Sudhir Gupta
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1489902740
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 268
Book Description
Since programmed cell death was first described in insects in 1964 and apoptosis was described in 1972, rapid progress has been made in understanding the basic mechanisms and genes regulating programmed cell death and apoptosis. In addition, defects in various genes regulating programmed cell death have been delineated in several experimental models of human diseases. This volume surveys various aspects of these rapidly developing areas of research in programmed cell death/apoptosis. This volume should be of interest to basic immunologists and molecular biologists. The volume begins with a historical perspective of cell death. The remainder of the volume is divided into four different parts. Part I deals with the signaling pathways in apoptosis, including cell cycle control of apoptosis, role of ceramide in apoptosis, role of antibody signaling, and biochemical regulation of apoptosis. The mechanisms for recognition of apoptotic lymphocytes by macrophages are also reviewed. Part II examines the role of various genes that regulate apoptosis, including the role ofFas, FasL, and other TNF family members in apoptosis and homeostatic regulation of immune response. Recently described splice variants and their influence on apoptosis are also reviewed, and the role of the members of the Bcl-2 family in apoptosis is discussed in detail. Part III reviews various aspects of apoptosis in B lymphocytes, including mechanisms that regulate apoptosis/survival of B lymphocytes and the regulation of Fas-mediated apoptosis in B lymphocytes.
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1489902740
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 268
Book Description
Since programmed cell death was first described in insects in 1964 and apoptosis was described in 1972, rapid progress has been made in understanding the basic mechanisms and genes regulating programmed cell death and apoptosis. In addition, defects in various genes regulating programmed cell death have been delineated in several experimental models of human diseases. This volume surveys various aspects of these rapidly developing areas of research in programmed cell death/apoptosis. This volume should be of interest to basic immunologists and molecular biologists. The volume begins with a historical perspective of cell death. The remainder of the volume is divided into four different parts. Part I deals with the signaling pathways in apoptosis, including cell cycle control of apoptosis, role of ceramide in apoptosis, role of antibody signaling, and biochemical regulation of apoptosis. The mechanisms for recognition of apoptotic lymphocytes by macrophages are also reviewed. Part II examines the role of various genes that regulate apoptosis, including the role ofFas, FasL, and other TNF family members in apoptosis and homeostatic regulation of immune response. Recently described splice variants and their influence on apoptosis are also reviewed, and the role of the members of the Bcl-2 family in apoptosis is discussed in detail. Part III reviews various aspects of apoptosis in B lymphocytes, including mechanisms that regulate apoptosis/survival of B lymphocytes and the regulation of Fas-mediated apoptosis in B lymphocytes.
Mechanisms of Lymphocyte Activation and Immune Regulation VIII
Author: Sudhir Gupta
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1461512433
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 138
Book Description
Advances in biochemistry, cell biology, genome-wide mutagenesis - coupled with molecular technology, including gene microarray and transgenic and knock-out animals - have been instrumental in understanding the cellular processes and molecular pathways of self-tolerance and autoimmune diseases. The molecular definition of these pathways and processes has led to novel treatments for certain auto-immune diseases that are based on the pathogenesis of diseases rather than on broad-spectrum immunosuppression. This book reviews many of these current developments and proposes future novel approaches for understanding the pathogenesis of auto-immune diseases and designing novel therapy. This book covers three major areas of auto-immunity: the basic mechanisms of immunological tolerance, pathogenesis of auto-immune diseases, and some novel therapies. This book should be useful for immunologists, molecular biologists, rheumatologists, and clinical scientists.
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1461512433
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 138
Book Description
Advances in biochemistry, cell biology, genome-wide mutagenesis - coupled with molecular technology, including gene microarray and transgenic and knock-out animals - have been instrumental in understanding the cellular processes and molecular pathways of self-tolerance and autoimmune diseases. The molecular definition of these pathways and processes has led to novel treatments for certain auto-immune diseases that are based on the pathogenesis of diseases rather than on broad-spectrum immunosuppression. This book reviews many of these current developments and proposes future novel approaches for understanding the pathogenesis of auto-immune diseases and designing novel therapy. This book covers three major areas of auto-immunity: the basic mechanisms of immunological tolerance, pathogenesis of auto-immune diseases, and some novel therapies. This book should be useful for immunologists, molecular biologists, rheumatologists, and clinical scientists.
Mechanisms of Lymphocyte Activation and Immune Regulation II
Author: S. Gupta
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1475758030
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 145
Book Description
The ac ti vati on of Iymphocytes by physiologie ligands has become a central area of study for immunologists. Furthermore, Iymphocytes offer many advantages for the study of general aspects of receptor-mediated cellular activation. For these reasons, research on the cellular and molecular aspects of the activation of Iymphocytes by antigens, antigen analogues, Iymphokines and other growth factors has expanded enormously in the last several years. Aseries of conferences, "The International Conferences on Lymphocyte Activation", has been initiated to meet the growing need for a forum for the discussion of the topics that are included within the area of Iymphocyte activation. This volume represents the proceedings of the Second International Conference on Lymphocyte Activation and Immune Regulation, held on February 18-20, 1988 at Newport Beach, California. The proceedings comprise four major sections. The first deals with the T cell receptors and T cell activation. It includes a model for the T cell receptor interaction with a complex of MHC plus antigen, structure of y c'i T cell receptor and their distinct isotypic forms, the role of zeta chain in the expression and structure of T cell receptors and its role in transmembrane signalling. The use of somatic cell mutants in the study of signal transduction function of the T cell antigen receptors and the early and late steps of signal transduction via a / ß T cell antigen receptors are discussed.
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1475758030
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 145
Book Description
The ac ti vati on of Iymphocytes by physiologie ligands has become a central area of study for immunologists. Furthermore, Iymphocytes offer many advantages for the study of general aspects of receptor-mediated cellular activation. For these reasons, research on the cellular and molecular aspects of the activation of Iymphocytes by antigens, antigen analogues, Iymphokines and other growth factors has expanded enormously in the last several years. Aseries of conferences, "The International Conferences on Lymphocyte Activation", has been initiated to meet the growing need for a forum for the discussion of the topics that are included within the area of Iymphocyte activation. This volume represents the proceedings of the Second International Conference on Lymphocyte Activation and Immune Regulation, held on February 18-20, 1988 at Newport Beach, California. The proceedings comprise four major sections. The first deals with the T cell receptors and T cell activation. It includes a model for the T cell receptor interaction with a complex of MHC plus antigen, structure of y c'i T cell receptor and their distinct isotypic forms, the role of zeta chain in the expression and structure of T cell receptors and its role in transmembrane signalling. The use of somatic cell mutants in the study of signal transduction function of the T cell antigen receptors and the early and late steps of signal transduction via a / ß T cell antigen receptors are discussed.
Mechanisms of Lymphocyte Activation and Immune Regulation
Author: Sudhir Gupta
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1468453238
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 333
Book Description
During the past 5 years rapid progress has been made in the understanding of biochemical pathways for signal transduction in lymphocyte activation. Gene cloning technology has been instrumental in defining and making available in pure form of a number of growth and differentiation factors, in the characterization of their receptors, and in the delineation of genes for the T cell receptor. This book is divided into 6 sections. Section 1 deals with the molecular structure of the T cell receptor. Section 2 discusses the role of the T cell receptor, membrane ion channels and biochemical pathways of signal transduction in T cell activation. The molecular structures and biological and immunological effects of interleukin 1, interleukin 2 and interleukin 3 are presented in Section 3. This section also details the structure of interleukin 2 receptor and its use as a target for therapy for certain leukemias. Section 4 includes the biochemical events which occur following the delivery of the signal for B cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation by antigen, growth/differentiation factors. The molecular structure of B cell stimulating factors is also discussed. The role of oncogene expression in cellular activation and differentiation is included in Section 5. The cellular and molecular basis of natural killing and the molecular basis of cyc1osporin A-mediated immunosuppression are discussed in detail in Section 6. We hope this book will serve as a reference work on basic mechanisms of lymphocyte activation, proliferation, and differentiation for immunologists and molecular biologists.
Publisher: Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN: 1468453238
Category : Science
Languages : en
Pages : 333
Book Description
During the past 5 years rapid progress has been made in the understanding of biochemical pathways for signal transduction in lymphocyte activation. Gene cloning technology has been instrumental in defining and making available in pure form of a number of growth and differentiation factors, in the characterization of their receptors, and in the delineation of genes for the T cell receptor. This book is divided into 6 sections. Section 1 deals with the molecular structure of the T cell receptor. Section 2 discusses the role of the T cell receptor, membrane ion channels and biochemical pathways of signal transduction in T cell activation. The molecular structures and biological and immunological effects of interleukin 1, interleukin 2 and interleukin 3 are presented in Section 3. This section also details the structure of interleukin 2 receptor and its use as a target for therapy for certain leukemias. Section 4 includes the biochemical events which occur following the delivery of the signal for B cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation by antigen, growth/differentiation factors. The molecular structure of B cell stimulating factors is also discussed. The role of oncogene expression in cellular activation and differentiation is included in Section 5. The cellular and molecular basis of natural killing and the molecular basis of cyc1osporin A-mediated immunosuppression are discussed in detail in Section 6. We hope this book will serve as a reference work on basic mechanisms of lymphocyte activation, proliferation, and differentiation for immunologists and molecular biologists.
Holland-Frei Cancer Medicine
Author: Robert C. Bast, Jr.
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1118934695
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 2003
Book Description
Holland-Frei Cancer Medicine, Ninth Edition, offers a balanced view of the most current knowledge of cancer science and clinical oncology practice. This all-new edition is the consummate reference source for medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, internists, surgical oncologists, and others who treat cancer patients. A translational perspective throughout, integrating cancer biology with cancer management providing an in depth understanding of the disease An emphasis on multidisciplinary, research-driven patient care to improve outcomes and optimal use of all appropriate therapies Cutting-edge coverage of personalized cancer care, including molecular diagnostics and therapeutics Concise, readable, clinically relevant text with algorithms, guidelines and insight into the use of both conventional and novel drugs Includes free access to the Wiley Digital Edition providing search across the book, the full reference list with web links, illustrations and photographs, and post-publication updates
Publisher: John Wiley & Sons
ISBN: 1118934695
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 2003
Book Description
Holland-Frei Cancer Medicine, Ninth Edition, offers a balanced view of the most current knowledge of cancer science and clinical oncology practice. This all-new edition is the consummate reference source for medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, internists, surgical oncologists, and others who treat cancer patients. A translational perspective throughout, integrating cancer biology with cancer management providing an in depth understanding of the disease An emphasis on multidisciplinary, research-driven patient care to improve outcomes and optimal use of all appropriate therapies Cutting-edge coverage of personalized cancer care, including molecular diagnostics and therapeutics Concise, readable, clinically relevant text with algorithms, guidelines and insight into the use of both conventional and novel drugs Includes free access to the Wiley Digital Edition providing search across the book, the full reference list with web links, illustrations and photographs, and post-publication updates
When Cells Die
Author: Richard A. Lockshin
Publisher: Wiley-Liss
ISBN:
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 536
Book Description
When Cells Die A Comprehensive Evaluation of Apoptosis and Programmed Cell Death Edited by Richard A. Lockshin, Zahra Zakeri, and Jonathan L. Tilly Cell death is fast becoming one of the most dynamic areas of biological research -involving as it does the study of apoptosis and programmed cell death and the role these phenomena play in development and homeostasis on the one hand, and aging and disease on the other. The profound implications for medicine and agriculture from the manipulation of these processes have spawned a deluge of research papers, articles, approaches, and methods -making it difficult for scientists to get an overview of the field. When Cells Die establishes a coherent framework for the study of cell death -cutting across viewpoints and disciplines and consolidating disparate research efforts. Leading international researchers describe a wide range of topics, including evaluation methods for programmed cell death and apoptosis in numerous tissues and circumstances; genetic mechanism, signal transduction, and observed manifestations of physiological cell death; model systems ranging from nematodes to humans; relevant work in cancer research, AIDS, immune disorders, fertility, eye disease, and Alzheimer's disease; and more. Written to provide an in-depth overview of cell death, the book is divided into five major parts: * The phenomenon of cell death * Themes and approaches to cell death * Cell death where mitosis is high and evanescence is desirable * Cell death in long-lived cells * The clinical relevance of apoptosis. When Cells Die offers a comprehensive introduction to an intriguing discipline, insight into areas in need of exploration, and information on new techniques and therapeutic applications -all supported with diagrams and flowcharts and a fully cross-referenced and indexed text. It is important reading for anyone working in cell and developmental biology, neuroscience, immunology, cancer research, and virology. It is also useful for advanced undergraduate and graduate-level students, postdoctoral fellows, and researchers just entering the field.
Publisher: Wiley-Liss
ISBN:
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 536
Book Description
When Cells Die A Comprehensive Evaluation of Apoptosis and Programmed Cell Death Edited by Richard A. Lockshin, Zahra Zakeri, and Jonathan L. Tilly Cell death is fast becoming one of the most dynamic areas of biological research -involving as it does the study of apoptosis and programmed cell death and the role these phenomena play in development and homeostasis on the one hand, and aging and disease on the other. The profound implications for medicine and agriculture from the manipulation of these processes have spawned a deluge of research papers, articles, approaches, and methods -making it difficult for scientists to get an overview of the field. When Cells Die establishes a coherent framework for the study of cell death -cutting across viewpoints and disciplines and consolidating disparate research efforts. Leading international researchers describe a wide range of topics, including evaluation methods for programmed cell death and apoptosis in numerous tissues and circumstances; genetic mechanism, signal transduction, and observed manifestations of physiological cell death; model systems ranging from nematodes to humans; relevant work in cancer research, AIDS, immune disorders, fertility, eye disease, and Alzheimer's disease; and more. Written to provide an in-depth overview of cell death, the book is divided into five major parts: * The phenomenon of cell death * Themes and approaches to cell death * Cell death where mitosis is high and evanescence is desirable * Cell death in long-lived cells * The clinical relevance of apoptosis. When Cells Die offers a comprehensive introduction to an intriguing discipline, insight into areas in need of exploration, and information on new techniques and therapeutic applications -all supported with diagrams and flowcharts and a fully cross-referenced and indexed text. It is important reading for anyone working in cell and developmental biology, neuroscience, immunology, cancer research, and virology. It is also useful for advanced undergraduate and graduate-level students, postdoctoral fellows, and researchers just entering the field.
Molecular Biology of B Cells
Author: Tasuku Honjo
Publisher: Elsevier
ISBN: 0123984904
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 587
Book Description
Molecular Biology of B Cells, Second Edition is a comprehensive reference to how B cells are generated, selected, activated and engaged in antibody production. All of these developmental and stimulatory processes are described in molecular, immunological, and genetic terms to give a clear understanding of complex phenotypes. Molecular Biology of B Cells, Second Edition offers an integrated view of all aspects of B cells to produce a normal immune response as a constant, and the molecular basis of numerous diseases due to B cell abnormality. The new edition continues its success with updated research on microRNAs in B cell development and immunity, new developments in understanding lymphoma biology, and therapeutic targeting of B cells for clinical application. With updated research and continued comprehensive coverage of all aspects of B cell biology, Molecular Biology of B Cells, Second Edition is the definitive resource, vital for researchers across molecular biology, immunology and genetics. - Covers signaling mechanisms regulating B cell differentiation - Provides information on the development of therapeutics using monoclonal antibodies and clinical application of Ab - Contains studies on B cell tumors from various stages of B lymphocytes - Offers an integrated view of all aspects of B cells to produce a normal immune response
Publisher: Elsevier
ISBN: 0123984904
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 587
Book Description
Molecular Biology of B Cells, Second Edition is a comprehensive reference to how B cells are generated, selected, activated and engaged in antibody production. All of these developmental and stimulatory processes are described in molecular, immunological, and genetic terms to give a clear understanding of complex phenotypes. Molecular Biology of B Cells, Second Edition offers an integrated view of all aspects of B cells to produce a normal immune response as a constant, and the molecular basis of numerous diseases due to B cell abnormality. The new edition continues its success with updated research on microRNAs in B cell development and immunity, new developments in understanding lymphoma biology, and therapeutic targeting of B cells for clinical application. With updated research and continued comprehensive coverage of all aspects of B cell biology, Molecular Biology of B Cells, Second Edition is the definitive resource, vital for researchers across molecular biology, immunology and genetics. - Covers signaling mechanisms regulating B cell differentiation - Provides information on the development of therapeutics using monoclonal antibodies and clinical application of Ab - Contains studies on B cell tumors from various stages of B lymphocytes - Offers an integrated view of all aspects of B cells to produce a normal immune response
Adverse Effects of Vaccines
Author: Institute of Medicine
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309214351
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 894
Book Description
In 1900, for every 1,000 babies born in the United States, 100 would die before their first birthday, often due to infectious diseases. Today, vaccines exist for many viral and bacterial diseases. The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act, passed in 1986, was intended to bolster vaccine research and development through the federal coordination of vaccine initiatives and to provide relief to vaccine manufacturers facing financial burdens. The legislation also intended to address concerns about the safety of vaccines by instituting a compensation program, setting up a passive surveillance system for vaccine adverse events, and by providing information to consumers. A key component of the legislation required the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to collaborate with the Institute of Medicine to assess concerns about the safety of vaccines and potential adverse events, especially in children. Adverse Effects of Vaccines reviews the epidemiological, clinical, and biological evidence regarding adverse health events associated with specific vaccines covered by the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP), including the varicella zoster vaccine, influenza vaccines, the hepatitis B vaccine, and the human papillomavirus vaccine, among others. For each possible adverse event, the report reviews peer-reviewed primary studies, summarizes their findings, and evaluates the epidemiological, clinical, and biological evidence. It finds that while no vaccine is 100 percent safe, very few adverse events are shown to be caused by vaccines. In addition, the evidence shows that vaccines do not cause several conditions. For example, the MMR vaccine is not associated with autism or childhood diabetes. Also, the DTaP vaccine is not associated with diabetes and the influenza vaccine given as a shot does not exacerbate asthma. Adverse Effects of Vaccines will be of special interest to the National Vaccine Program Office, the VICP, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, vaccine safety researchers and manufacturers, parents, caregivers, and health professionals in the private and public sectors.
Publisher: National Academies Press
ISBN: 0309214351
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages : 894
Book Description
In 1900, for every 1,000 babies born in the United States, 100 would die before their first birthday, often due to infectious diseases. Today, vaccines exist for many viral and bacterial diseases. The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act, passed in 1986, was intended to bolster vaccine research and development through the federal coordination of vaccine initiatives and to provide relief to vaccine manufacturers facing financial burdens. The legislation also intended to address concerns about the safety of vaccines by instituting a compensation program, setting up a passive surveillance system for vaccine adverse events, and by providing information to consumers. A key component of the legislation required the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to collaborate with the Institute of Medicine to assess concerns about the safety of vaccines and potential adverse events, especially in children. Adverse Effects of Vaccines reviews the epidemiological, clinical, and biological evidence regarding adverse health events associated with specific vaccines covered by the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP), including the varicella zoster vaccine, influenza vaccines, the hepatitis B vaccine, and the human papillomavirus vaccine, among others. For each possible adverse event, the report reviews peer-reviewed primary studies, summarizes their findings, and evaluates the epidemiological, clinical, and biological evidence. It finds that while no vaccine is 100 percent safe, very few adverse events are shown to be caused by vaccines. In addition, the evidence shows that vaccines do not cause several conditions. For example, the MMR vaccine is not associated with autism or childhood diabetes. Also, the DTaP vaccine is not associated with diabetes and the influenza vaccine given as a shot does not exacerbate asthma. Adverse Effects of Vaccines will be of special interest to the National Vaccine Program Office, the VICP, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, vaccine safety researchers and manufacturers, parents, caregivers, and health professionals in the private and public sectors.
Janeway's Immunobiology
Author: Kenneth Murphy
Publisher: Garland Science
ISBN: 9780815344575
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages :
Book Description
The Janeway's Immunobiology CD-ROM, Immunobiology Interactive, is included with each book, and can be purchased separately. It contains animations and videos with voiceover narration, as well as the figures from the text for presentation purposes.
Publisher: Garland Science
ISBN: 9780815344575
Category : Medical
Languages : en
Pages :
Book Description
The Janeway's Immunobiology CD-ROM, Immunobiology Interactive, is included with each book, and can be purchased separately. It contains animations and videos with voiceover narration, as well as the figures from the text for presentation purposes.
Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis
Author: Marinos C. Dalakas
Publisher: Butterworth-Heinemann
ISBN: 1483163040
Category : Health & Fitness
Languages : en
Pages : 362
Book Description
Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis provides extensive information regarding Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis (PM/DM), which is described as a heterogeneous disease complex. This book is divided into four sections: Part I (Clinical Features) covers the classification of PM/DM, details of the clinical presentation, and the disease's association with the other connective tissue disorders and malignancies. Part II (Etiology and Mechanisms) covers advances in the immunopathology and viral etiology of PM/DM along with a frequently recognized entity: inclusion body myositis. Part III (Diagnosis and Treatment) covers the histologic, muscle enzyme histochemical, electron microscopic, and resin histology features of PM/DM along with those electromyographic features that could help make a more accurate diagnosis. Part IV (Overview) summarizes the issues that may not have been clear and highlights differing and unsettled views or present available data. This text is directed to clinicians in private practice or in academic institutions concerned with PM/DM patients, including neurologists, rheumatologists, pediatricians, dermatologists, physiatrists, and neuromuscular investigators. This book is intended as well for neuromuscular pathologists who interpret muscle biopsy specimens and electromyographers who perform EMG studies to help determine the clinical diagnosis. Researchers in immunology and immunopathology of neuromuscular diseases will find discussions in this book invaluable.
Publisher: Butterworth-Heinemann
ISBN: 1483163040
Category : Health & Fitness
Languages : en
Pages : 362
Book Description
Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis provides extensive information regarding Polymyositis and Dermatomyositis (PM/DM), which is described as a heterogeneous disease complex. This book is divided into four sections: Part I (Clinical Features) covers the classification of PM/DM, details of the clinical presentation, and the disease's association with the other connective tissue disorders and malignancies. Part II (Etiology and Mechanisms) covers advances in the immunopathology and viral etiology of PM/DM along with a frequently recognized entity: inclusion body myositis. Part III (Diagnosis and Treatment) covers the histologic, muscle enzyme histochemical, electron microscopic, and resin histology features of PM/DM along with those electromyographic features that could help make a more accurate diagnosis. Part IV (Overview) summarizes the issues that may not have been clear and highlights differing and unsettled views or present available data. This text is directed to clinicians in private practice or in academic institutions concerned with PM/DM patients, including neurologists, rheumatologists, pediatricians, dermatologists, physiatrists, and neuromuscular investigators. This book is intended as well for neuromuscular pathologists who interpret muscle biopsy specimens and electromyographers who perform EMG studies to help determine the clinical diagnosis. Researchers in immunology and immunopathology of neuromuscular diseases will find discussions in this book invaluable.