Seasonal Patterns of Stress, Immune Function, and Disease

by Randy J. Nelson, Gregory E. Demas, Sabra L. Klein, Lance J. Kriegsfeld, Frank Bronson

Overview

This volume presents evidence that infection is cyclical with the seasons, and that this phenomenon is mirrored in cycles of immune function. The authors identify the mechanisms by which immune systems are bolstered to counteract seasonally-recurrent stressors, such as extreme temperature reductions and food shortages. Stress, infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases, and human cancers are examined, and the role of hormones such as melatonin and glucocorticoids are considered. This is the first monograph to examine seasonal immune function from an interdisciplinary perspective.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521021173
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	10/13/2005
Pages:	308
Product dimensions:	5.94(w) x 9.02(h) x 0.71(d)

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments; Preface; 1. Seasonality; 2. Immune function; 3. Seasonal fluctuations in disease preference; 4. Seasonal changes in immune function; 5. Photoperiod, melatonin, and immunity; 6. Energetics and immune function; 7. Hormonal influence on immune function; 8. Clinical significance of seasonal patterns of immune function and disease; References; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"As the first book to describe seasonal immune function from an interdisciplinary perspective, [this book] is recommended for undergraduate or graduate classes wishing to break down departmental barriers and learn about an organism as a whole." TRENDS in Endocrinology and Metabolism

"...an interesting and rather provocative book on the effect of the seasons of the year on stress, immune function, and disease." Lancet

"...this book should be valuable to anyone interested in immune function in wild animals, and also should be of interest to epidemiologists and immunologists attempting to understand patterns of disease prevalence." Animal Behaviour

"The issues expored in the book are wide-ranging and interdisciplinary, and will appeal to anyone interested in seasonality and health." Luce

From the Publisher