In this book the most important papers presented at the 5th Symposium in Immunology, held April 7 - 8, 1995 in Strasbourg, France, are published. Theses papers are from leading experts in the fields covering topics ranging from basic mechanisms, such as the molecular anatomy of autoimmune diseases, to data relevant to the modern diagnosis, therapy, treatment, and prevention of viral infections. By collecting such a wide-range of papers the organizers of the meeting succeeded in compiling an integrated overview of current research, clinical studies, epidemiological data, and their interrelationship.

The Symposia in Immunology were organized to bring important new information in the expanding field of immunology to practicing physicians interested in the field. Highly renowned basic scientists share their results with physicians conducting clinical research and thoses experienced in the treatment of the respective diseases. This series of symposia will cover different areas of immunology and will help to close the gap between the special achievements of scientists and the daily routine of practicing physicians.

The Symposia in Immunology were organized to bring important new information on the expanding field of immunology to practicing physicians interested in the field. Highly renowned basic scientists share their results with physicians conducting clinical research and those experienced in the treatment of the respective diseases. This series of symposia is planned to cover different areas of immunology and will help to close the gap between special achievements of scientists and practicing physicians.

This is the seventh symposium in a series of symposia on immunology organized by IMMUNO covering this time vaccination. This volume deals with antigen-host interaction and hepatitis immunisation, novel vaccine concepts and technologies, and vaccines for the twenty-first century.