The Immunobiology of Heat Shock Proteins

Dear Colleagues,

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) have a canonical function in protein folding and degradation but also play powerful roles in immunity. Mammalian HSPs can be released from the cytoplasm of cells to the extracellular space and serum and function as danger signals for many diseases, including various types of cancer, various inflammatory conditions, metabolic and other diseases. These extracellular HSPs can bind to certain receptors and trigger innate immune responses, as well as participate in adaptive immunity by ferrying antigens to antigen-presenting cells (APC). By contrast, prokaryotic HSPs may suppress innate immunity and overall host immune responses. These properties are being exploited in a transplant setting to increase the lifetime of transplanted organs and tissues. In addition, prokaryotic HSPs can trigger autoimmune responses that can lead to serious pathological conditions, such as heart disease. This volume will discuss the pro- and anti-immune functions of HSPs and their potential use in clinical settings.

Prof. Dr. Michael Sherman
Prof. Dr. Stuart K. Calderwood
Guest Editors

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• heat shock proteins
• extracellular
• immunity
• inflammation
• danger signal
• antigen processing
• HSP receptors