Superantigen Protocols assembles experimental protocols that have proved useful for the study of superantigens. These techniques will allow researchers from various areas of cell biology, microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, and molecular biology to assess the physical characteristics and biological effects of well-known superantigens as well as of putative substances that might have superantigenic activities, and to explore therapies for superantig- induced effects. Microbial exotoxins have been studied for decades as virulence factors because of their pathogenic effects. The term "superantigen" was coined by Marrack and Kappler a decade ago for some of these molecules because of their potent T-cell stimulatory activities. In recent years, advances in mole- lar biology provide recombinant as well as natural superantigens in highly purified form for physical characterization. Superantigens are now used extensively as tools to study interactions between receptors on cells of the immune system as they bind to major histocompatibility complex class II m- ecules on antigen-presenting cells and V regions of T-cell receptors. The b- ? logical effects that result from these interactions are studied both in vitro and in vivo. The intent of this book is, therefore, to bring together up-to-date te- niques developed by experts in the field of biochemistry, immunology, and molecular biology for the study of superantigens. Superantigen Protocols begins with an overview of the field to provide background information on the various classes of superantigens and their str- ture.

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Reviews
"...sufficient experimental detail is provided so as to allow experienced investigators to use the described techniques. A suitable bibliography accompanies each chapter. Beyond their involvement in human pathology, the molecular mechanism of action of this class of molecules (binding both to antigen presenting cells and T-lymphocytes) may provide useful clues regarding human immune responses. Accordingly, this book is a timely and relevant contribution...Each of the protocols is adequately described and contains sufficient references to allow an investigator to refer to original sources. The different aspects of superantigen biology are covered as are effects on animals. " -Doody's Health Sciences Book Review Journal

"I found this book an excellent resource that would be extremely valuable in setting up methods to assess bacterial superantigens." -Pharmaceutical Research

"...a must for the superantigen laboratory shelves and recommended to those interested in applying some of the interesting and powerful techniques to their own research." - Immunology and Cell Biology



Book Information
ISBN 9781489938237
Author Teresa Krakauer
Format Paperback
Page Count 260
Imprint Humana Press Inc.
Publisher Humana Press Inc.