Physiology and Pathophysiology of Leukocyte Adhesion

Book excerpt: Leukocytes play an integral role in the pathogenesis of different inflammatory disorders. Recent results indicate that leukocytes are also involved in conditions that had not formerly been associated with a cytotoxic effect by leukocytes. In 27 chapters by leading investigators, this book reviews recent research on leukocyte adhesion and microvascular kinetics. Detailed descriptions of adhesive glycoproteins expressed on the surface of leukocytes and endothelial cells are given together with summaries of the current state of leukocyte rheology, kinetics and entrapment in microvessels. Since leukocytes reach all organs, the mechanisms described in this volume may apply to a wide range of cardiovascular disorders. A variety of important inflammatory and circulatory disorders are discussed including cerebral and coronary ischemia, shock, atherogenesis, chronic venous insufficiency, gastric ulcer and diabetic retinopathy. New concepts about the etiology of cardiovascular complications are presented, with emphasis on molecular, cellular, and microvascular mechanisms. The current state of endogenous anti-adhesive and pro-adhesive mediators is summarized, including interventions against leukocyte activation and adhesion.