This book contains the latest viewpoint on how follicular dendritic cell (FDC) function during normal immune responses as well as in the pathologies associated with HIV infections and lymphomas. Contributions deal with how to isolate and identify FDC both in vivo and in vitro from either human or rodent tissue. Described in detail are most recent research data concerning the role of FDC in B cell growth and differ- entiation. Also discussed are the means by which FDC carry out their cardinal feature, i.e., trapping of immune com- plexes. Finally, the controversial issue of the origin of FDC is presented from two opposing viewpoints.The main bene- fit to the reader is that the book offers the most compre- hensive discussion available about FDC and latest theories concerning this cell and its function in the immune system.
