Introductory Immunology: Basic Concepts for Interdisciplinary Applications

Introductory Immunology quickly acquaints readers with natural immune responses manifesting in diseases and disorders. The book presents a complete picture of natural defenses to infectious agents, as well as the mechanisms that lead to autoimmune dysfunction. In addition, it examines immunologically based diseases, giving the reader sufficient knowledge to make sound clinical decisions leading to better treatment outcomes.

Introductory Immunology is aimed at researchers, postgraduates, or any scientifically inclined reader interested in immunology. No prior expertise in medical, biochemical, or cellular science is needed to benefit from the clear presentation of immunology concepts in this book.

Overview of immune components Host immune defenses Systems and cells Innate and adaptive components Immune reactions How we defend against infectious agents Bacteria and mycobacteria Viral agents HIV/AIDS Fungal and parasitic organisms Basic disorders of immune function Autoimmunities Allergies, asthma, and endocrinology Vaccines and Immunotherapy How vaccines function Vaccines: Truths and myths Immunopharmacology Immunity and aging Cancer immunology Natural defense against tumors Cancers of the immune system Transplantation