Pathogen-Derived Immunomodulatory Molecules

Pathogen-Derived Immunomodulatory Molecules is a book title that may require some explanation. Pathogens that are present today have evolved following a long association with man and have developed unique strategies that have been optimized by natural selection to subvert the host immunity. As we approach the 200th anniversary of Charles Darwin.s birth, it is appropriate to appreciate that Darwin recognized that pathogens (infections) play a significant and potent role in natural selection, encompassed by the concept "infection begets natural selection". This book therefore examines the molecules that pathogens produce, which can modulate or usurp the functions of the immune system. This book is timely due to the need to expand the horizons of conventional drug discovery. A trend in the biopharmaceutical pipeline of fewer drugs to market is illustrated by USA FDA in 2007 approving the lowest number of new molecular entities since 1983. As the drug discovery and development industry broadens its search for new drugs to less traditional strategies, this book will be a reference to the potential for exploiting pathogen as a source of the anti-inflammatory drugs of the future. Finally, this book whets the appetite for the reader, whether in academia or industry, to explore opportunities for exploiting pathogens for the discovery of new processes in immunobiology and, ultimately, for development of new therapies for human inflammatory diseases. Written for: Researchers and scientists.

Pages: 183

Series: Advances in Experimental Medicine & Biology

Volume: 666

Edition: 01

Publisher: Springer

Copyright: 2009

Published: 11/09

Notes: Print on Demand. Please allow additional time for delivery.