Biological significance of superantigens

This publication describes the so-called superantigens, the most potent stimulators of T lymphocytes known. Superantigens induce shock, immunosuppression and T cell tolerance and are involved in the pathogenesis of certain infectious diseases. Leading investigators present the latest findings on the molecular genetics, the immunology and the biological and clinical significance of these novel molecules. Topics covered in the reviews include the molecular biology of superantigens from "staphylococcus aureus" and "streptococcus pyogenes", the mitogen of "mycoplasma arthritidis", the biology of superantigens encoded by mouse mammary tumour viruses, the pathogenesis of toxic shock syndrome, as well as T cell energy and immunosuppression as a consequence of interaction of superantigens with the immune system. Updating progress in a fast-moving area of research, this book should be of benefit to immunologists working with T lymphocytes, microbiologists interested in bacterial toxins, and medical doctors studying the pathogenetic role of T lymphocytes.