Autoimmunity is one of the most highly investigated areas of immunologic research. The principle of immune system discrimination between self and foreign molecules is fundamental to the survival of the species, and the failure to establish or maintain this discrimination can lead to a wide spectrum of diseases. As a consequence of intensive studies, much has been learned with regard to the normal functioning of the immune system and the editing processes by which self-tolerance is established. Moreover, many theories and experimental models have been developed to explore the mechanisms of autoimmune disease pathogenesis. This book is the first volume of the new series ‚Current Directions in Autoimmunity‘, which aims to consolidate current knowledge of autoimmunity focusing on both basic and clinical aspects. Given that these diseases have a strong genetic basis, it seems appropriate that the first volume addresses this topic. It reviews the most recent findings on genes affecting autoimmunity and genome-wide studies defining the multiple loci predisposing to prominent autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, arthritis, diabetes and multiple sclerosis. For each of these entities, studies in experimental models as well as humans are covered. The authoritative and timely material will be of interest to investigators in the fields of immunology and genetics, to clinicians with interest in rheumatology, endocrinology and neurology, and to those working to devise gene-specific therapies for a variety of inflammatory conditions.