Author Description

The clinical and experimental effects of cytokines have been realized for a long time. The clinical effects of tumor necrosis factor were noted almost 100 years ago. The basic biological effects of interferons and the hemopoietic growth factors have been known for more than 20 years. Given the basis of modern molecular biotechniques, information concern ing the mediators of cellular interactions is expanding almost exponentially. New principles in the regulation of cell growth, microenvironment, immune response, and malignancy are being discoverd right now. New therapeutic options are becoming available and have, in some areas, already crossed the threshold of clinical application. However, the way forward might be more complicated than we are in a position to recognize today. Some of the first optimistic expectations have not yet been fulfilled. Nevertheless, we are experiencing a revolution in medicine. To contribute to this process and to stimulate scientific communi in this field, we have initiated the international symposia on cytokines cation in hemopoiesis, oncology and aids. Major contributions from the first sym posium are published in this book. We thank all the authors for their contri butions, particularly those from the Hannover Medical School, who have worked hard to realize the congress and prepare these proceedings. We also thank the pharmaceutical companies whose support made this book possible. Finally we thank Professors Deicher, Poliwoda, and Riehm, heads of the Departments of Hematology and Oncology, Immunology, and Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, respectively, who encouraged us and gave us their firm support.