Author Description

Compiling an up-to-date and detailed survey of the role cytokines play in cell-to-cell communication, development, and differentiation, this comprehensive reference highlights the medical advantages of cytokine inhibition and pursues novel methods of discovery for more potent and specific blocking agents. Investigates the pathogenic role of cytokines and the potential of cytokine inhibitors as anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antiviral agents! Written by 25 recognized experts revealing recent breakthroughs in research, Cytokine Inhibitors • illustrates cases of naturally produced or in vitro engineered polypeptide cytokine blocking agents • describes all possible approaches to cytokine inhibitors, including monoclonal antibodies, soluble receptors, engineered mutant cytokines, and small-molecular-weight receptor antagonists and signaling inhibitors • clearly explains the homeostatic function of cytokine inhibition and verifies therapeutic approaches effecting natural responses in organisms • discusses the results of clinical trials and therapeutic applications of first-generation recombinant receptor antagonists, such as the potential of tumor necrosis factor antagonists as prominent tools in the therapy of chronic inflammatory conditions • concentrates on the clinical development of second-generation small-molecular-weight, orally bioavailable cytokine inhibitors • reviews the improved understanding of intracellular signaling pathways, the structural determinants responsible for cytokine-receptor interaction • lists the three-dimensional structure, relevant receptors, and intracellular tyrosine kinases ofcytokines • and much more! Containing over 1400 references as well as tables and drawings, Cytokine Inhibitors serves as an exemplary reference for basic and clinical immunologists; allergists; biochemists; pathologists, hematologists; experimental, cell, and molecular biologists; rheumatologists; infectious disease specialists; medicinal chemists; and med