Myelopeptides

Myelopeptides are a new class of endogenous bioregulatory peptides. Each has its own definite immunoregulatory activity and differs in their final effects and mechanisms of action. Myelopeptides act as immunocorrectors and thus prevent the development of immunodeficiency states. They have an antitumour effect which contributes to the retention of active immune defence in the tumour-bearing body. The ability of myelopeptides to induce terminal cell differentiation in haemopoietic disorders (in particular, leukaemia) is demonstrated. The protective effect of a single myelopeptide in bacterial contagion of animals, which is due to the stimulation of macrophage phagocytosis, is established. In this text, the concept of the general biological value of cytokines, including peptide endogenous regulators, is discussed. Myelopeptides are promising in the development of a new generation of medicinal preparations because of their endogenous origin, low molecular weight, directed action and absence of side effects. This volume is intended for all those interested in medical and biological problems: lecturers and students in medical and biological universities, scientists and researchers from medical and biological laboratories, and other professionals involved in medical and biological research.