EXPLORING IMMUNOLOGY - AN EVIDENCE-BASED PRIMER

The immune system is the body organ that protects all higher organisms against infections and parasites. The immune system of vertebrates is particularly complex and is one of only two immune systems which allows - in the form of antibodies - for almost unlimited variability through genetic rearrangements. Almost any disruption in the immune system results in a more or less severe disease and/or will render the carrier susceptible to a variety of infectious agents. In addition, it has become clear that the immune system often plays a critical role during cancer development and an inappropriate immune response is responsible for the development of autoimmune diseases and allergies.


Understanding the immune system is thus not only critical for the treatment of many infectious diseases but also for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, allergies and increasingly cancer.


This concise introductory textbook uses carefully chosen examples from clinical and experimental observations to provide an insight into the principles underlying the immune system. As a result, it encourages readers to ask critical questions in order to further advance our understanding of this unique organ. Both authors are experienced lecturers and highly regarded researchers.

Gordon MacPherson is Reader in Experimental Pathology at the Sir William Dunn School of Pathology, University of Oxford and Tutor in Medicine, Oriel College Oxford. He has taught immunology to medical students for over 30 years in lectures, practical classes and tutorials at both introductory and Honours levels. He teaches all aspects of immunology, and in tutorials also covers microbiology and general pathology. His research interests are in immune regulation, particularly mucosal immunity, and the properties and roles of dendritic cells. He has published many papers (experimental and reviews) and has been an invited speaker at many international conferences

Jon Austyn is Professor of Immunobiology in the Nuffield Department of Surgery at the University of Oxford. He has taught extensively in all areas of fundamental immunology over many years, and designed the MSc course in Integrated Immunology at the University of Oxford, which he now co-directs. Jon Austyn has over 25 years research experience of dendritic cell immunobiology, particularly as applied to transplantation, infectious diseases and more recently cancer. He was recently awarded with distinction the Diploma in Learning and Teaching in Higher Education by the University of Oxford.