William Clark's At War Within takes us on a fascinating tour through the immune system, examining the history of its discovery, the ways in which it protects us, and how it may bring its full force to bear at the wrong time or in the wrong place. Scientists have only gradually come to realize that this exquisite defense system not only has the potential to help, but also the potential to do profound harm in health problems ranging from allergies to AIDS, from organ transplants to cancer. Dr. Clark discusses the myriad medical problems involving the immune system and systematically explains each one. He discusses organ transplants and touches on the heated ethical debate over the use of both primate and human organs. In the chapter on AIDS, Clark explains how the disease originated and the ways in which it operates. And, in each section, we learn about the most recent medical breakthroughs.

According to Clark, it would be almost impossible to imagine a more elegant strategy for our protection than the one chosen by our immune system.

At War Within provides a thorough and engaging explanation of this most complex and delicately balanced mechanism.

"Clark's historical background and clear explanations of...microscopic processes offer the kind of primer that lay readers will find valuable". -- Business Week

"Tantalizing". -- Anna Fels, The New York Times Book Review