Reticuloendothelial System in Health and Disease (Functions and Characteristics)
Publisher: Plenum Pub Corp; Plenum Press
Published: June 1976
Language: eng
Format: Hardcover
Number of pages: 495
ISBN-13: 9780306390975
Subjects: Congresses; Diseases; Reticulo-endothelial system; Reticuloendothelial system
Description: An extraordinary development of the knowledge, concepts and biomedical applications has occurred during the past two decades in the biological sciences, including the Reticuloendothelial System (RES). For example, it is now widely recognized that distinct classes of cells are involved in the recognition of "exogenous" invaders of the body such as microorganisms and other foreign antigens, as well as of "endogenous" parasites represented by transformed neoplastic cells and altered "self" antigens. Prominent among cell populations involved in such recognition of antigens and subsequent immune responses are those constituting the RES. In recent years, there has been much discussion and indeed controversy as to what constitutes such a system and even whether the term "RES" is appropriate. Some investigators feel that the phagocytes are the most important cells of the RES as they play a major role in the defense mechanism of the host.

Mononuclear phagocytes include tissue macrophages as well as circulating monocytes and their precursors. Although phagocytosis is a major functional activity, it is only one of their several functions. The important role of phagocytes and other mononuclear cells in antibody formation, cell-mediated immunity, specific and non-specific resistance to microorganisms and tumor cells, as well as homeostatic adjustments in general has become the focus of attention for many investigators. The Reticuloendothelial Society, which is concerned with the advancement of knowledge concerning the many diverse functions of RE cells, organizes national and international meetings and publishes a scientific journal. The Seventh International Congress of the RES Society was held in Pamplona, Spain, together with the First Scientific Meeting of the European RES Society on September 15-20, 1975. The Congress had as its scientific objective a wide range of subjects concerning the RES in health and disease.

Special reference was given to macrophage structure, ontogeny and classification of cell populations. Emphasis was placed on the function and biochemistry of macrophages and other cells of the RES in the modulation of the immune response, their role in tumor and transplantation immunology, and their influence in regulating the growth and function of other cell types. The secretion of soluble materials by macrophages and lymphocytes and the mode of action of chemotherapeutic drugs and other agents on RE cell function and immune reactivity were also stressed. A symposium was presented each morning during the Congress with five to six internationally renowned biomedical and basic scientists who discussed specific aspects of the RES in detail. Each afternoon was devoted to two simultaneous scientific sessions where short papers were presented on subjects of current interest and relevance to the RES. Workshops devoted to particularly important phases of the RES were also held.

These volumes constitute the published record of the proceedings of the symposia, the scientific paper sessions, and the workshops. However, the written contributions are not arranged exactly as presented at the Congress, but rather these two volumes intersperse papers selected for their current relevance. The first volume includes papers given during the first half of the Congress and is entitled "Functions and Characteristics of the RES". The second volume comprises papers given during the second half of the Congress and is entitled "Immunologic and Pathologic Aspects of the RES". The setting for this meeting was in the magnificent Basque country of northern Spain. Pamplona, founded in 75 B. C. by Pompey and captured in 778 by Charlemagne, is a city of great tradition and charm. The nine-day Fiesta de San Fermin is still celebrated by running the bulls through the streets crowded with enthusiastic spectators.

The sidewalk cafes on Plaza de Mayor are festive and reminiscent of the vivid descriptions left by Hemingway. In contrast, the Universidad de Navarra is a modern, beautifully furnished and equipped facility, which added the final touch of perfection to a wonderful Congress.