Biomaterials in Immune Engineering

Biomaterials in Immune Engineering covers biomaterial design as applied to immune-based applications, from reactive responses associated with cancer therapy to suppressive functions involved in autoimmunity. The role of the innate immune system in modulating host responses to biomaterials has been long recognized. In recent years, it has greatly expanded, leading to a dynamic community of investigators, adoption of engineering principles in immune-related fields, and establishment of formal immunoengineering programs across a range of academic and industrial environments. However, the wide range of disciplines from which immunoengineering emerged, as well as the large body of knowledge contained in each area, sets a daunting landscape for engaging new investigators.This book focuses on the intersection of these disciplines, providing a snapshot of the breadth, possibilities, and unifying principles of contemporary biomaterial design in immune engineering, particularly the adaptive immune response. Chapters collectively span biomaterial design as applied to immune-based applications, from reactive responses associated with cancer therapy to suppressive functions involved in autoimmunity. Material parameters such as chemistry, structure, and mechanics are covered. In addition, chapters that involve applications to specific diseases will include a perspective on how biomaterials approaches could improve the current standard of care. Biomaterials in Immune Engineering offers an comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to immune engineering materials, for researchers in materials science and biomedical engineering, as well as clinicians and those in health markets with an interest in immunology and cancer therapeutics.