The Antigens

The Antigens, Volume II is a comprehensive treatise covering all aspects of antigens, including their chemistry and biology as well as their immunologic role and expression. Topics covered range from protein antigens and blood group antigens to low molecular weight antigens and immunoglobulin A. The idiotypy of antibodies is also explored, along with the application of antibodies to the measurement of substances of physiological and pharmacological interest. Comprised of six chapters, this volume begins with a discussion on the molecular bases of antigenicity and immunogenicity of proteins, followed by a chapter dealing with blood group antigens. The immunologic effects of low molecular weight antigens are then considered, together with their elicitation of allergic reactions and their tolerance and specific inhibition of the immune response. The next chapter focuses on the use of antibodies to measure substances of physiological and pharmacological interest, with emphasis on the general principle of quantitative immunoassay. The book also analyzes the idiotypy of antibodies before concluding with a description of the antibody functions of immunoglobulin A. This monograph will be of interest to practitioners and researchers in immunology, experimental and clinical medicine, biochemistry, and other disciplines.