The Biology and Clinical Applications of Interleukin-2

The molecular structure of interleukin-2 (IL-2) and that of its receptor subunits provide a basis for understanding lymphocyte activation by IL-2 and the generation of effector cells capable of mediating cytotoxicity towards tumors. This book provides an up-to-date account of IL-2, its effect on lymphocyte function, and clinical applications. Internationally know experts review the molecular aspects of cell signalling, giving insight on the in vivo pathways of activation likely to be important in determining clinical responses. They also examine the use of cytokines, particularly IL-2, in the treatment of cancer, and describe the results of recent clinical trials using IL-2, as well as of adoptive cell therapy. Providing a clear account of recent progress, the book also reviews the problems involved in attempting to improve the therapeutic benefit of IL-2, along with the importance of mechanisms which subverse IL-2 responses. This is the most up-to-date account of molecular research and clinical trials in this area, and will be of great benefit to students and researchers in immunology, pharmacology, biochemistry, and oncology who are interested in this vitally important topic.

'this book provides a useful guide to this interesting area of experimental cancer therapy, particularly for those clinicians and scientists who are not familiar with the field.' F. Balkwill, Imperial Cancer Research Fund, European Journal of Cancer, Vol. 28A, No. 4/5. 1992 '...the great virtue of this book is that it includes the most important findings on the basic as well as on the clinical aspects of IL-2. ...there is no doubt that researchers, clinicians and students in immunology or oncology will find this volume to be a valuable source of information relevant to the structure and function of IL-2, from both the research and clinical perspectives.' Molecular Immunology 'This is a major update of the molecular biology of IL-2 and its receptor.' Aslib Book List, Vol.56, No.4, April 1991 'All articles are fully illustrated and very extensively referenced. This book will be a valuable source of information for researchers, clinicians and students in the fields of immunology, pharmacology, oncology, biochemistry and molecular biology.'Drugs of Today