Intact immunity is dependent on the interaction of a variety of immune cells and a multitude of secreted molecules. Hence, minor malfunctions in this complex system may substantially impact on the efficiency of the immune system, ultimately leading to the same result, namely increased susceptibility to infection and tumori-genesis. This special issue of Pathobiology on immuno-suppression-associated pathology focuses on pathologies evolving from secondary immunodeficiency states induced by immunomodulatory drug therapy in the context of autoimmune diseases and in the prevention of transplant rejection.Research on pathways and components that are more selectively interfering with the immune system has led to the emergence of a wealth of new immunomodulatory drugs. Their increased availability goes along with a widened clinical indication including various autoimmune diseases. In his overview, Kovarik delineates the most important principles of therapeutic immune modulations and their clinical indications as well as potential side effects.
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