The natural killer [NK] cell plays a critical role in regulating the innate and adaptive immune response to pathogens, injury and stress. It has emerged as a cell capable of helper function, expansion, contraction, and accelerated memory responses - features similar to other adaptive immune cells. It is a professional accelerator of immunity, mediating dendritic cell maturation and its precursors critical for the origin and development of secondary lymph node structures. These characteristics place the NK cell in a unique position, with a major role in sculpting the host response to damage and injury. This volume is the first complete and authoritative reference to explore these emergent, exciting aspects of the NK cell, placing it at the center of damage/danger recognition and the response to stress. Natural Killer Cells details NK cell biology, the role of NK cells in regulating immunity through interactions with other cells and tissues, the participation of NK cells in disease and special topics in NK biology.

- Provides a broad, detailed coverage of the biology and interactions of NK cells for students, fellows, scientists, and practitioners - Includes figures, histologic sections, and illustrations of the ontogeny of NK cells - Companion website includes full-color image database