Gamma-delta T Cells

Over the last 15 years, since the discovery of the T cell receptor and genes, rapid progress has been made toward the understanding of the biology of T cells. They differ from conventional T cells not only in T cell receptor composition, but also in their development, tissue distribution, and physiological functions. This volume contains seven chapters contributed by experts on different aspects of T cells, including the natural ligands for T cell receptors, IL-7-dependent regulation of T cell development, cytokine-mediated inter-cellular communication of T cells with other cell types, and their physiological functions in innate and adaptive immune responses. The comprehensive review articles collected in this volume will be of interest to basic immunologists who wish to update their knowledge on the biology of T cells. The book also provides a unique opportunity for non-immunologists and clinicians to understand how the immune system is specifically equipped to protect the body against pathogens at the environmental interface.