This textbook for undergraduate biology and medical students describes the basic molecular and cellular components of the immune system, the pathogenesis and prevention of infectious diseases, and common immune system dysfunctions. Topics of the 27 chapters include antibodies, the major histocompatibility complex, antigen processing, the T-cell receptor, vaccines, AIDS, and transplantation immunology. Color illustrations depict the immunologic processes in conjunction with their role in infectious or other diseases. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)