HLA and MHC: Genes, Molecules and Function (Human Molecular Genetics Series)

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and its gene products have a mjaor impact on health and disease, through their central role in the regulation of the immune response. Whilst the MNC has evolved as part of the host's defence strategy to protect against infection with pathogenic microorganisms, its gene products also form the major targets for rejection of allogeneic tissues in organ transplantation, and susceptibility to a variety of diseases has been mapped to or associated with particular MHC specificities or haplotypes. This complex role in the health of the host has made the MHC the focus of attention in many fields of biological research.HLA and MHC: genes, molecules and function is an authoritative review of the majorhistocompatibility complex, from the molecular genetics of the MHC, through the structure and function of MHC-encoded molecules, to their role in health and disease.The emphasis is on the human MHC, HLA, but relevant animal studies are also included to give a comprehensive coverage of the subject. Individual chapters have been contributed by internationally recognized experts in their respective fields of research. This major new publication will be of interest not only to immunologists, but also to scientists and clinicians in a wide range of fields in which immune response plays a role.