As has been the format in previous volumes in this series, selected topics in allergy and immunology are reviewed in depth. In this volume, six pertinent, quite diverse subjects have been chosen.
Human immunoglobulin structure is reviewed by Bernier in a clear succinct presentation. Attention is also given to the biological ramifications of the chemical properties of immunoglobulins. This is followed by a most thorough consideration of a highly complex subject, "The Synthesis and Assembly of Immunoglobulin Polypeptide Chains," by Scharff and Laskov. It is suggested that H and L chains are synthesized in manner similar to other proteins.
The timely topic of "Macrophages and Antibody Synthesis" is well covered by Schwartz, Ryder, and Gottlieb. Areas of controversy and ignorance, as well as fact, are well elucidated. In another highly specialized area, Makela and Cross discuss lymphocyte types and reactions with antigens in their section, "The Diversity and Specialization of