The immunoglobulin gene complex is responsible for generating an extraordinarily wide range of antibodies, each
possessing a unique antigen specificity. The Second Edition of Immunoglobulin Genes brings the reader up-to-date
with the rapid progress in our understanding of this system. Firmly established as the definitive book on the topic,
it provides a fully comprehensive account of the organization, function, rearrangement, and expression of these
and related genes.
Since the publication of the First Edition, the work has been has been extensively revised and updated to cover
new research data on human immunoglobulin genes as well as mammalian and lower vertebrate systems. New chapters
include: Somatic Mutation and B-Cell Maturation, Antigen Receptors, and B Lymphocyte Tolerance in the Mouse.
For the Immunologist
Detailed descriptions of the molecular mechanisms generating this diverse range of antibodies and the regulation
of genes encoding them
For the Molecular Biologist
Discusses important phenomena including gene rearrangement, differential splicing, and deletion in the context
of immunoglobulin genes
The excitement of research on immunoglobulin genes is conveyed by the range and complexity of issues discussed
here. The book contains invaluable information for clinicians and research scientists with an interest in the immune
response. The Foreword is written by César Milstein.