Lupus

Leading basic and clinical investigators from around the world summarize the most recent research on the molecular and cellular origins of lupus. Their cutting-edge articles review the mechanisms underlying abnormal immunity and introduce the powerful new concept that a disorder of multiple genes underlies the abnormal immune response, leading directly to the development of lupus. This pathophysiology is shown to involve a wide variety of cell types, including T cells, B cells, natural killer cells, macrophages/monocytes, and endothelial cells. Over time, the resulting long-term inflammation causes irreversible cell destruction and, ultimately, organ failure. Lupus: Molecular and Cellular Pathogenesis is a masterful new synthesis of all the new knowledge emerging today about lupus. Its new perspectives will sharpen the focus of research and ultimately lead to better and more effective treatment.

"This effort represents a comprehensive and authoritative coverage of work on lupus. It is up to date in that the latest developments in the field are provided (e.g., the role of Fas and apoptosis in disease management). All workers in this area will find this a valuable resource. It also represents a worthwhile addition to medical libraries..." -4 Stars, Doody's Health Sciences Book Review Journal

"Firstly, the references quoted in the various chapters are well poised, with a mix of historical ones and very recent ones. Secondly, the authors were asked to keep in mind four issues while writing: their working hypothesis, the relationship between the hypothesis and the advancement of understanding of lupus pathogenesis, how novel information allows new insights in the field and where to direct research in the next 5 years...I strongly recommend reading this book. It has the major merit of presenting in a coordinated fashion many new findings on a disease that remains largely mysterious. This book has the potential to encourage cross-fertilization among researchers interested in the field of autoimmunity, and provides a valuable tool for newcomers to get a sense of the daunting problems that remain to be solved in order to better understand the regulation and dysregulation of the immune system." -Journal of Investigative Dermatology