Humans coexist with millions of harmless microorganisms, but emerging diseases, resistance to antibiotics, and the threat of bioterrorism are forcing scientists to look for new ways to confront the microbes that do pose a danger. This report identifies innovative approaches to the development of antimicrobial drugs and vaccines based on a greater understanding of how the human immune system interacts with both good and bad microbes. The report concludes that the development of a single superdrug to fight all infectious agents is unrealistic.
Table of Contents


Front Matter
Summary
Challenges for the Development of New Antimicrobials— Rethinking the Approaches: Report of a Workshop
Promising Approaches to the Development of Immunomodulation for the Treatment of Infectious Diseases: Report of a Workshop
Appendix A Statement of Task
Appendix B New Classes of Antimicrobials Committee Biographical Sketches
Appendix C New Classes of Antimicrobials Workshop
Appendix D Immunomodulation Committee Biographical Sketches
Appendix E Immunomodulation Workshop