Microenvironmental aspects of immunity

Investigation of the morphology and function of lymphatic tissue evolved rapidly during the past few years. Many new aspects and dimensions have proved to be of great significance for the understanding of processes which are triggered by immunological means. The cellular coordination that operates in immune response emphasizes again the importance of immuno-ecologic relations in the lymphatic tissue. It has become obvious that both the morphologic and the molecular properties of lymphatic cells are essential for their functional expression. Furthermore, the emerging body of evidence clearly shows that nonlymphatic cells (e.g. reticular cells and neurons) and substances that exert neurohumoral and hormonal activities should be regarded as normal constituents of the microenvironment of lymphatic tissue. The immune phenomena are, therefore, direct derivates of processes that occur in this microenvironment. Such a view of the microenvironment of immunity calls for immunoendocrinologic, immunoneurologic and immunopharmacologic projects, it stimulates the creative imagination, and encourages research workers to enter into unexplored areas of the immunosciences. This book illustrates the joint efforts made by scientists from various parts of the world and armed with different ideas and views, to solve some of the mysteries of lymphatic tissue microenvironment. The Fourth Conference took place in the lovely setting of Dubrovnik and in the shade of olive trees under which philosophers used to meditate in ancient times. For five days, from June 26 to 30, 1972, more than 250 scientists participated in the morning and afternoon plenary sessions. Specific attention was devoted to eight fundamental areas of immunobiology. The papers of many immunologists were supplemented by two special afternoon lectures given by Drs. D. C. Dumonde and J. B. Solomon. The chairmen had a difficult and responsible task in selecting the most interesting from among the large number of excellent papers submitted. They organized and ensured the successful functioning of sessions, and reported the session highlights to all participants.