Bacterial Superantigens / Structure, Function, and Therapeutic Potential: Structure, Function, and Therapeutic Potential (Molecular Biology Intelligence Unit)

The book focuses on three major aspects of bacterial superantigens. First, the crystal structure of two of them was resolved recently and their characteristics are described comprehensively. The book integrates the available data on mutagenesis, biochemistry and crystallography of superantigens. One chapter describes recent data on crystal structure of superantigens complexed with their receptor, the MHC class II molecule. Second, the book deals with the function and the effects on the immune system of these molecules in vivo and in vitro. Third, these immunomodulatory properties have been used effectively in cancer therapy. One chapter shows the relevance of superantigens in tumor therapy. The field of superantigens is booming, and this volume will be of interest to all researchers in this field.