Jens Rolff and Stuart Reynolds (eds)
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199551354
- eISBN:
- 9780191720505
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199551354.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Evolutionary Biology / Genetics, Disease Ecology / Epidemiology
Under continual attack from both microbial pathogens and multicellular parasites, insects must cope with immune challenges every day of their lives. However, this has not prevented them from becoming ...
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Under continual attack from both microbial pathogens and multicellular parasites, insects must cope with immune challenges every day of their lives. However, this has not prevented them from becoming the most successful group of animals on the planet. Insects possess highly-developed innate immune systems which have been fine-tuned by an arms race with pathogens spanning hundreds of millions of years of evolutionary history. Recent discoveries are revealing both an unexpected degree of specificity and an indication of immunological memory — the functional hallmark of vertebrate immunity. The study of insect immune systems has accelerated rapidly in recent years and is now becoming an important interdisciplinary field. Furthermore, insects are a phenomenally rich and diverse source of antimicrobial chemicals. Some of these are already being seriously considered as potential therapeutic agents to control microbes such as MRSA. This book provides a coherent synthesis and is structured around two broadly themed sections: mechanisms of immunity and evolutionary ecology. This text adopts an interdisciplinary and concept-driven approach, integrating insights from immunology, molecular biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, parasitology, and epidemiology.Less
Under continual attack from both microbial pathogens and multicellular parasites, insects must cope with immune challenges every day of their lives. However, this has not prevented them from becoming the most successful group of animals on the planet. Insects possess highly-developed innate immune systems which have been fine-tuned by an arms race with pathogens spanning hundreds of millions of years of evolutionary history. Recent discoveries are revealing both an unexpected degree of specificity and an indication of immunological memory — the functional hallmark of vertebrate immunity. The study of insect immune systems has accelerated rapidly in recent years and is now becoming an important interdisciplinary field. Furthermore, insects are a phenomenally rich and diverse source of antimicrobial chemicals. Some of these are already being seriously considered as potential therapeutic agents to control microbes such as MRSA. This book provides a coherent synthesis and is structured around two broadly themed sections: mechanisms of immunity and evolutionary ecology. This text adopts an interdisciplinary and concept-driven approach, integrating insights from immunology, molecular biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, parasitology, and epidemiology.
Thomas Pradeu
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- May 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780199775286
- eISBN:
- 9780199932818
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199775286.001.0001
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Philosophy of Science, Metaphysics/Epistemology
What counts as an individual in the living world? What does it mean for a living thing to remain the same through time while constantly changing? Immunology, one of the most dynamic fields of today’s ...
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What counts as an individual in the living world? What does it mean for a living thing to remain the same through time while constantly changing? Immunology, one of the most dynamic fields of today’s biology, considers these questions its province, and answers them through its crucial concepts of “self” and “nonself.” Though immunology has been dominated since the 1940s by the self-nonself theory, this book argues that this theory is inadequate, because immune responses to self constituents and immune tolerance of foreign entities are the rule, not the exception. An alternative theory, the continuity theory, is advanced instead. This theory offers a new way to answer the question of what triggers an immune response. It also echoes the recent realization that all organisms, and not higher vertebrates only, have an immune system. This book’s main thesis is that the self-nonself theory should be abandoned, but that immunology still proves to be decisive for delineating the boundaries of the organism. Articulating an evolutionary and an immunological perspective, it offers an original conception of the organism. Tolerance of the fetus by the mother and of countless bacteria on the body’s surfaces proves that every organism is heterogeneous, that is, made of entities of different origins. In other words, every organism appears as a chimera, a mixed living thing the cohesiveness of which is ensured by the constant action of its immune system. The Limits of the Self will be essential reading for anyone interested in the definition of biological individuality and the understanding of the immune system.Less
What counts as an individual in the living world? What does it mean for a living thing to remain the same through time while constantly changing? Immunology, one of the most dynamic fields of today’s biology, considers these questions its province, and answers them through its crucial concepts of “self” and “nonself.” Though immunology has been dominated since the 1940s by the self-nonself theory, this book argues that this theory is inadequate, because immune responses to self constituents and immune tolerance of foreign entities are the rule, not the exception. An alternative theory, the continuity theory, is advanced instead. This theory offers a new way to answer the question of what triggers an immune response. It also echoes the recent realization that all organisms, and not higher vertebrates only, have an immune system. This book’s main thesis is that the self-nonself theory should be abandoned, but that immunology still proves to be decisive for delineating the boundaries of the organism. Articulating an evolutionary and an immunological perspective, it offers an original conception of the organism. Tolerance of the fetus by the mother and of countless bacteria on the body’s surfaces proves that every organism is heterogeneous, that is, made of entities of different origins. In other words, every organism appears as a chimera, a mixed living thing the cohesiveness of which is ensured by the constant action of its immune system. The Limits of the Self will be essential reading for anyone interested in the definition of biological individuality and the understanding of the immune system.
Paul F. Lurquin and Linda Stone
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195315387
- eISBN:
- 9780199785674
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195315387.003.0003
- Subject:
- Religion, Religion and Society
This chapter rebuts irreducible complexity and creationism by explaining the reliability of dating techniques as well as sophisticated laboratory techniques that allow researchers to synthesize ...
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This chapter rebuts irreducible complexity and creationism by explaining the reliability of dating techniques as well as sophisticated laboratory techniques that allow researchers to synthesize extinct genes (genetic archaeology, gene resurrection) and study their homology to other genes. These techniques clearly demonstrate that the irreducible complexity of the eye, the immune system, and the bacterial flagellum are subjective impressions. On the contrary, phylogenetic trees based on gene homology show a deep evolutionary link between simple life-forms and complex ones. Finally, the chapter gives several examples of “poor design” that cast doubt on the principle of Intelligent Design.Less
This chapter rebuts irreducible complexity and creationism by explaining the reliability of dating techniques as well as sophisticated laboratory techniques that allow researchers to synthesize extinct genes (genetic archaeology, gene resurrection) and study their homology to other genes. These techniques clearly demonstrate that the irreducible complexity of the eye, the immune system, and the bacterial flagellum are subjective impressions. On the contrary, phylogenetic trees based on gene homology show a deep evolutionary link between simple life-forms and complex ones. Finally, the chapter gives several examples of “poor design” that cast doubt on the principle of Intelligent Design.
Jacob Koella
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780199551354
- eISBN:
- 9780191720505
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199551354.003.0010
- Subject:
- Biology, Evolutionary Biology / Genetics, Disease Ecology / Epidemiology
This chapter discusses the evolution of immune function. It emphasizes two points. First, the immune system is complex, with many responses that may act together or inhibit each other to determine ...
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This chapter discusses the evolution of immune function. It emphasizes two points. First, the immune system is complex, with many responses that may act together or inhibit each other to determine the outcome of an infection. Using an immune response as an indicator of the host's resistance (or, more generally, its quality) is therefore problematic, as increased investment in a given immune response may well indicate increased susceptibility to a parasite. Second, resistance is a product of the interaction between a host and a parasite. Thus, we cannot understand the evolution of immune function without considering the co-evolution of the host's and the parasite's contributions to resistance. Indeed, as found in a more general context, mathematical models of the evolution of the host that do not consider the co-evolutionary response by the parasite can be misleading as their predictions can differ qualitatively from the co-evolutionary dynamics and equilibrium.Less
This chapter discusses the evolution of immune function. It emphasizes two points. First, the immune system is complex, with many responses that may act together or inhibit each other to determine the outcome of an infection. Using an immune response as an indicator of the host's resistance (or, more generally, its quality) is therefore problematic, as increased investment in a given immune response may well indicate increased susceptibility to a parasite. Second, resistance is a product of the interaction between a host and a parasite. Thus, we cannot understand the evolution of immune function without considering the co-evolution of the host's and the parasite's contributions to resistance. Indeed, as found in a more general context, mathematical models of the evolution of the host that do not consider the co-evolutionary response by the parasite can be misleading as their predictions can differ qualitatively from the co-evolutionary dynamics and equilibrium.
Harold G. Koenig and Harvey J. Cohen
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195143607
- eISBN:
- 9780199893256
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195143607.001.0001
- Subject:
- Psychology, Neuropsychology
This book presents new medical research establishing a connection between religion and health and examines the implications for Eastern and Western religious traditions and for society and culture. ...
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This book presents new medical research establishing a connection between religion and health and examines the implications for Eastern and Western religious traditions and for society and culture. It examines a series of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) topics that relate to religious faith and behavior. PNI studies the relationships between mental states and the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. Among the issues explored are how mental states in general and belief states in particular affect physical health. The book argues that religious involvement and belief can affect certain neuroendocrine and immune mechanisms, and that these mechanisms, in turn, positively affect a wide variety of health outcomes such as susceptibility to cancer and recovery following surgery.Less
This book presents new medical research establishing a connection between religion and health and examines the implications for Eastern and Western religious traditions and for society and culture. It examines a series of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) topics that relate to religious faith and behavior. PNI studies the relationships between mental states and the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. Among the issues explored are how mental states in general and belief states in particular affect physical health. The book argues that religious involvement and belief can affect certain neuroendocrine and immune mechanisms, and that these mechanisms, in turn, positively affect a wide variety of health outcomes such as susceptibility to cancer and recovery following surgery.
Nicholas P. Money
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195172270
- eISBN:
- 9780199790258
- Item type:
- book
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195172270.001.0001
- Subject:
- Biology, Microbiology
We live on a very moldy planet. Microscopic fungi blossom on every scrap of plant debris and are part of every crumb of soil. Molds can also grow in great profusion in our homes and workplaces, ...
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We live on a very moldy planet. Microscopic fungi blossom on every scrap of plant debris and are part of every crumb of soil. Molds can also grow in great profusion in our homes and workplaces, colonizing damp walls and filling the air with their spores. Recently, these indoor molds have acquired a very bad reputation. In a textbook illustration of a media frenzy, black and toxic molds have been spotlighted as an insidious threat to the modern way of life. Stories of homes overrun by fungi have heightened the public’s awareness of indoor molds and the mere sight of a discolored shower curtain can be enough to provoke panic. Among the thousands of mold species, one fungus, Stachybotrys chartarum, has been singled out as a particular menace. This puzzling microbe was first identified on damp wallpaper in Prague in the 19th century, but is now known throughout North America. Stachybotrys produces an alarming range of toxins, but claims that its spores can cause lung damage, disrupt the immune system, and even impair memory have limited support from scientific studies. This book explores the case against Stachybotrys and other indoor molds, offering an objective assessment of the public and scientific perception of these intriguing microbes, their effects upon human health, and their significance in the courtroom.Less
We live on a very moldy planet. Microscopic fungi blossom on every scrap of plant debris and are part of every crumb of soil. Molds can also grow in great profusion in our homes and workplaces, colonizing damp walls and filling the air with their spores. Recently, these indoor molds have acquired a very bad reputation. In a textbook illustration of a media frenzy, black and toxic molds have been spotlighted as an insidious threat to the modern way of life. Stories of homes overrun by fungi have heightened the public’s awareness of indoor molds and the mere sight of a discolored shower curtain can be enough to provoke panic. Among the thousands of mold species, one fungus, Stachybotrys chartarum, has been singled out as a particular menace. This puzzling microbe was first identified on damp wallpaper in Prague in the 19th century, but is now known throughout North America. Stachybotrys produces an alarming range of toxins, but claims that its spores can cause lung damage, disrupt the immune system, and even impair memory have limited support from scientific studies. This book explores the case against Stachybotrys and other indoor molds, offering an objective assessment of the public and scientific perception of these intriguing microbes, their effects upon human health, and their significance in the courtroom.
Thomas Pradeu and Elizabeth Vitanza
- Published in print:
- 2012
- Published Online:
- May 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780199775286
- eISBN:
- 9780199932818
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199775286.003.0002
- Subject:
- Philosophy, Philosophy of Science, Metaphysics/Epistemology
This chapter investigates the different definitions of immunology, in particular the dominant definition stating that immunology is the discipline that studies the defense of organisms against ...
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This chapter investigates the different definitions of immunology, in particular the dominant definition stating that immunology is the discipline that studies the defense of organisms against pathogens. The different steps towards the autonomy of immunology as a discipline are examined, from immunization to the elaboration of a theory of immunity, and eventually the institutionalization of the domain. I propose my own definition of immunology as the discipline that studies specific interactions between immune receptors and antigenic patterns, triggering mechanisms that destroy or prevent the destruction of target antigens. I show that, contrary to what has long been believed, every organism has an immune system. I describe several examples of immune systems (in mammals, insects, plants, and even unicellulars). I close this chapter by an analysis of the concepts generally considered as central in immunology, those of “self” and “nonself.”Less
This chapter investigates the different definitions of immunology, in particular the dominant definition stating that immunology is the discipline that studies the defense of organisms against pathogens. The different steps towards the autonomy of immunology as a discipline are examined, from immunization to the elaboration of a theory of immunity, and eventually the institutionalization of the domain. I propose my own definition of immunology as the discipline that studies specific interactions between immune receptors and antigenic patterns, triggering mechanisms that destroy or prevent the destruction of target antigens. I show that, contrary to what has long been believed, every organism has an immune system. I describe several examples of immune systems (in mammals, insects, plants, and even unicellulars). I close this chapter by an analysis of the concepts generally considered as central in immunology, those of “self” and “nonself.”
Kokona Chatzantoni and Athanasia Mouzaki
- Published in print:
- 2009
- Published Online:
- January 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195326697
- eISBN:
- 9780199864874
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195326697.003.0014
- Subject:
- Neuroscience, Molecular and Cellular Systems
The immune system is characterized by a complex network of cells and organs specialized to extinguish foreign invaders or malfunctioning cells of the organism. Although innate immunity, B-cell ...
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The immune system is characterized by a complex network of cells and organs specialized to extinguish foreign invaders or malfunctioning cells of the organism. Although innate immunity, B-cell function via antibody responses, and cytotoxic T lymphocytes are very important for protection of the body, T cells play a central role in the immune system and are more important for its regulation. This chapter discusses T-cell regulation within the immune system, along with central and peripheral tolerance mechanisms of positive and negative selection, anergy, and deletion. Immunomodulation in the nervous system as well as vascular system during inflammation and autoimmunity is described using the paradigms of two complex pathological conditions: multiple sclerosis and atherosclerosis. The role of T cells and T regulatory cells in breaking or maintaining tolerance is examined, together with the proposed ways of their therapeutic manipulations to ameliorate disease progression.Less
The immune system is characterized by a complex network of cells and organs specialized to extinguish foreign invaders or malfunctioning cells of the organism. Although innate immunity, B-cell function via antibody responses, and cytotoxic T lymphocytes are very important for protection of the body, T cells play a central role in the immune system and are more important for its regulation. This chapter discusses T-cell regulation within the immune system, along with central and peripheral tolerance mechanisms of positive and negative selection, anergy, and deletion. Immunomodulation in the nervous system as well as vascular system during inflammation and autoimmunity is described using the paradigms of two complex pathological conditions: multiple sclerosis and atherosclerosis. The role of T cells and T regulatory cells in breaking or maintaining tolerance is examined, together with the proposed ways of their therapeutic manipulations to ameliorate disease progression.
Jaap Goudsmit
- Published in print:
- 2004
- Published Online:
- September 2007
- ISBN:
- 9780195130348
- eISBN:
- 9780199790166
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195130348.003.0009
- Subject:
- Biology, Microbiology
This chapter discusses HIV. Approximately 90% of people infected with HIV die from AIDS within 15 years if no drugs are provided. HIV is a unique virus in that, by itself, it does not cause the ...
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This chapter discusses HIV. Approximately 90% of people infected with HIV die from AIDS within 15 years if no drugs are provided. HIV is a unique virus in that, by itself, it does not cause the disease symptoms that eventually occur with HIV infection. Instead, it causes a complete breakdown of the immune system.Less
This chapter discusses HIV. Approximately 90% of people infected with HIV die from AIDS within 15 years if no drugs are provided. HIV is a unique virus in that, by itself, it does not cause the disease symptoms that eventually occur with HIV infection. Instead, it causes a complete breakdown of the immune system.
BRUCE S. RABIN
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195143607
- eISBN:
- 9780199893256
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195143607.003.0004
- Subject:
- Psychology, Neuropsychology
This chapter explains how psychological stress affects the brain, neuroendocrine system and ultimately, the cardiovascular and immune systems. A theoretical model is presented that details the ...
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This chapter explains how psychological stress affects the brain, neuroendocrine system and ultimately, the cardiovascular and immune systems. A theoretical model is presented that details the effects of stress on the locus ceruleus and sympathetic nervous system, which connect the brain to primary and secondary lymph organs. The chapter discusses how stress affects the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, the adrenal gland, and the hormones produced by these glands which ultimately affect cellular immunity, antibody production and cytokine activity. It also examines how religious beliefs and activity might influence this system by improving coping and increasing support or, alternatively, may simply be a marker for some other factor (genetic or acquired) that is associated with lower stress and greater sociability.Less
This chapter explains how psychological stress affects the brain, neuroendocrine system and ultimately, the cardiovascular and immune systems. A theoretical model is presented that details the effects of stress on the locus ceruleus and sympathetic nervous system, which connect the brain to primary and secondary lymph organs. The chapter discusses how stress affects the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, the adrenal gland, and the hormones produced by these glands which ultimately affect cellular immunity, antibody production and cytokine activity. It also examines how religious beliefs and activity might influence this system by improving coping and increasing support or, alternatively, may simply be a marker for some other factor (genetic or acquired) that is associated with lower stress and greater sociability.
HAROLD G. KOENIG and HARVEY JAY COHEN
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195143607
- eISBN:
- 9780199893256
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195143607.003.0011
- Subject:
- Psychology, Neuropsychology
This chapter looks at diseases which result not from a hypoactive immune system but rather from an immune system functioning in an exaggerated or uncontrolled fashion. This is seen in autoimmune ...
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This chapter looks at diseases which result not from a hypoactive immune system but rather from an immune system functioning in an exaggerated or uncontrolled fashion. This is seen in autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Graves's disease, multiple sclerosis, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, and a host of other disorders which arise when an overactive immune system attacks normal healthy tissue. Religious beliefs and practices (from Buddhist to Judeo-Christian traditions) may help reduce stress by improving coping and thereby favorably affect the course of these diseases. Religious beliefs may facilitate coping by providing patients with a greater “sense of coherence” which makes sense of or gives meaning to the pain and suffering which these people experience.Less
This chapter looks at diseases which result not from a hypoactive immune system but rather from an immune system functioning in an exaggerated or uncontrolled fashion. This is seen in autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, Graves's disease, multiple sclerosis, insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, and a host of other disorders which arise when an overactive immune system attacks normal healthy tissue. Religious beliefs and practices (from Buddhist to Judeo-Christian traditions) may help reduce stress by improving coping and thereby favorably affect the course of these diseases. Religious beliefs may facilitate coping by providing patients with a greater “sense of coherence” which makes sense of or gives meaning to the pain and suffering which these people experience.
GARETH J. MORGAN, MARTHA S. LINET, and CHARLES S. RABKIN
- Published in print:
- 2006
- Published Online:
- September 2009
- ISBN:
- 9780195149616
- eISBN:
- 9780199865062
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195149616.003.0027
- Subject:
- Public Health and Epidemiology, Public Health, Epidemiology
This chapter discusses the immunologic factors in cancer. Topics covered include structure and function of the immune system, immune variation and cancer risk, and age-related changes in immune ...
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This chapter discusses the immunologic factors in cancer. Topics covered include structure and function of the immune system, immune variation and cancer risk, and age-related changes in immune function. Experience with a wide range of immune deficient conditions indicates that loss of immune competence does not globally increase cancer incidence. Limited sets of malignancies are increased that are specific to the underlying immune abnormalities. A common feature is the prominent excess of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in many of these disorders.Less
This chapter discusses the immunologic factors in cancer. Topics covered include structure and function of the immune system, immune variation and cancer risk, and age-related changes in immune function. Experience with a wide range of immune deficient conditions indicates that loss of immune competence does not globally increase cancer incidence. Limited sets of malignancies are increased that are specific to the underlying immune abnormalities. A common feature is the prominent excess of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in many of these disorders.
BRUCE S. RABIN and HAROLD G. KOENIG
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195143607
- eISBN:
- 9780199893256
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195143607.003.0012
- Subject:
- Psychology, Neuropsychology
A number of solid organs, cellular components and soluble proteins make up the immune system. These include the lymphoid tissues, lymphocytes and other immune cells, and immunoglobulins and ...
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A number of solid organs, cellular components and soluble proteins make up the immune system. These include the lymphoid tissues, lymphocytes and other immune cells, and immunoglobulins and cytokines. This chapter discusses measures of immune function, neuroendocrine function, religion and spirituality, pointing out the various strengths and weaknesses of different instruments. This chapter is key for researchers and scientists who wish to study the relationship between religion and psychoneuroimmunology. At least ten major religious dimensions require consideration: denomination/affiliation, religious belief, religious attitudes, organizational or social religious activity, non-organizational or private religious activity, religious salience or importance, religious orientation or motivation, religious coping, religious history, religious experience and religious development or maturity. Finally, there are the wider domains of spirituality and spiritual experience.Less
A number of solid organs, cellular components and soluble proteins make up the immune system. These include the lymphoid tissues, lymphocytes and other immune cells, and immunoglobulins and cytokines. This chapter discusses measures of immune function, neuroendocrine function, religion and spirituality, pointing out the various strengths and weaknesses of different instruments. This chapter is key for researchers and scientists who wish to study the relationship between religion and psychoneuroimmunology. At least ten major religious dimensions require consideration: denomination/affiliation, religious belief, religious attitudes, organizational or social religious activity, non-organizational or private religious activity, religious salience or importance, religious orientation or motivation, religious coping, religious history, religious experience and religious development or maturity. Finally, there are the wider domains of spirituality and spiritual experience.
Luis P. Villarreal
- Published in print:
- 2008
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780520253476
- eISBN:
- 9780520934313
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- University of California Press
- DOI:
- 10.1525/california/9780520253476.003.0004
- Subject:
- Biology, Evolutionary Biology / Genetics
Biological systems must employ a security or immunity system to ensure their survival. This chapter traces the early origins of biological identification and immune systems, first found in the ...
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Biological systems must employ a security or immunity system to ensure their survival. This chapter traces the early origins of biological identification and immune systems, first found in the prokaryotes, such as bacteria. It outlines the evolution of biological models of group identity and immunity and presents a thesis that links biological identity systems to security systems. Security, immunity, and group identity are presented as highly related concepts, all of which depend on an ancient and enduring strategy that uses addiction modules. Human social identity, the source of many security concerns, has retained these basic biological strategies.Less
Biological systems must employ a security or immunity system to ensure their survival. This chapter traces the early origins of biological identification and immune systems, first found in the prokaryotes, such as bacteria. It outlines the evolution of biological models of group identity and immunity and presents a thesis that links biological identity systems to security systems. Security, immunity, and group identity are presented as highly related concepts, all of which depend on an ancient and enduring strategy that uses addiction modules. Human social identity, the source of many security concerns, has retained these basic biological strategies.
Paul Schmid-Hempel
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- December 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199229482
- eISBN:
- 9780191774744
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199229482.003.0004
- Subject:
- Biology, Disease Ecology / Epidemiology, Evolutionary Biology / Genetics
This chapter looks at the natural history of host defences. Host defences refer to the processes that minimize fitness loss when a host is in the presence of, or is infected by, parasites. In ...
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This chapter looks at the natural history of host defences. Host defences refer to the processes that minimize fitness loss when a host is in the presence of, or is infected by, parasites. In essence, defence comes at the cost of the host’s other fitness components, and because of that, defence is never maximal. The chapter thus looks at the processes under the control of the individual during its lifetime, and at the manner through which hosts defend themselves before infection by adapting changes in behaviour, diet, habitat choice, body walls, and so forth. It also looks at how post-infection defences can include changes in behaviour of life history. The chapter gives an overview of immune systems, their parts, and processes, and how it is exactly that they create and form immunities.Less
This chapter looks at the natural history of host defences. Host defences refer to the processes that minimize fitness loss when a host is in the presence of, or is infected by, parasites. In essence, defence comes at the cost of the host’s other fitness components, and because of that, defence is never maximal. The chapter thus looks at the processes under the control of the individual during its lifetime, and at the manner through which hosts defend themselves before infection by adapting changes in behaviour, diet, habitat choice, body walls, and so forth. It also looks at how post-infection defences can include changes in behaviour of life history. The chapter gives an overview of immune systems, their parts, and processes, and how it is exactly that they create and form immunities.
Dagan A. Loisel, Susan C. Alberts, and Carole Ober
- Published in print:
- 2007
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780199207466
- eISBN:
- 9780191728167
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199207466.003.0008
- Subject:
- Biology, Evolutionary Biology / Genetics
This chapter surveys connections between the nervous system and the immune system, and suggests that their connections mediate many significant health outcomes. The nervous and immune systems are ...
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This chapter surveys connections between the nervous system and the immune system, and suggests that their connections mediate many significant health outcomes. The nervous and immune systems are intimately connected by shared developmental, functional and biochemical pathways. The extraordinary diversity and remarkable evolution of MHC genes have been influenced by several distinct forces, including pathogen-mediated selection, and sexual and reproductive selection. MHC diversity influences the risk and progression of infectious, reproductive, autoimmune, and inflammatory diseases. MHC genes play a significant role in olfactory communication, behavior, and mate choice in vertebrates, including humans. The unique evolution of MHC genes contributed to the prevalence of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases in modern human populations.Less
This chapter surveys connections between the nervous system and the immune system, and suggests that their connections mediate many significant health outcomes. The nervous and immune systems are intimately connected by shared developmental, functional and biochemical pathways. The extraordinary diversity and remarkable evolution of MHC genes have been influenced by several distinct forces, including pathogen-mediated selection, and sexual and reproductive selection. MHC diversity influences the risk and progression of infectious, reproductive, autoimmune, and inflammatory diseases. MHC genes play a significant role in olfactory communication, behavior, and mate choice in vertebrates, including humans. The unique evolution of MHC genes contributed to the prevalence of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases in modern human populations.
HAROLD G. KOENIG and HARVEY JAY COHEN
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- April 2010
- ISBN:
- 9780195143607
- eISBN:
- 9780199893256
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780195143607.003.0001
- Subject:
- Psychology, Neuropsychology
On July 12 1999, twelve of the world's leading psychoneuroimmunologists, theologians and physicians gathered at Duke University to discuss the effects of stress on the immune system and to see how ...
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On July 12 1999, twelve of the world's leading psychoneuroimmunologists, theologians and physicians gathered at Duke University to discuss the effects of stress on the immune system and to see how this knowledge might inform us about the religion-health relationship. The Duke conference, entitled “Psychoneuroimmunology and the Faith Factor in Human Health”, became the first attempt to examine the possibility that religious involvement might affect physical health through neuroendocrine and immune mechanisms. This book not only documents the discussions in the Duke conference but also expands them to include more detailed and thoughtful consideration of the connection between psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) and the religion-health relationship. It looks at how stress affects the physical body, the role of stress in cancer, the link between psychosocial factors and wound healing, the relationship between psychological stress and autoimmune disease, and the implications of the PNI-religion link for society and culture.Less
On July 12 1999, twelve of the world's leading psychoneuroimmunologists, theologians and physicians gathered at Duke University to discuss the effects of stress on the immune system and to see how this knowledge might inform us about the religion-health relationship. The Duke conference, entitled “Psychoneuroimmunology and the Faith Factor in Human Health”, became the first attempt to examine the possibility that religious involvement might affect physical health through neuroendocrine and immune mechanisms. This book not only documents the discussions in the Duke conference but also expands them to include more detailed and thoughtful consideration of the connection between psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) and the religion-health relationship. It looks at how stress affects the physical body, the role of stress in cancer, the link between psychosocial factors and wound healing, the relationship between psychological stress and autoimmune disease, and the implications of the PNI-religion link for society and culture.
Nicholas P. Money
- Published in print:
- 2011
- Published Online:
- January 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780199732562
- eISBN:
- 9780199918515
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199732562.003.0008
- Subject:
- Biology, Natural History and Field Guides, Plant Sciences and Forestry
The final chapter addresses the value of mushroom extracts in treating varied illnesses. Marketers maintain that mushroom extracts are powerful agents in the treatment of cancer, AIDS, and other ...
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The final chapter addresses the value of mushroom extracts in treating varied illnesses. Marketers maintain that mushroom extracts are powerful agents in the treatment of cancer, AIDS, and other serious conditions. Few, if any, of these claims are supported by evidence from clinical trials. Extracts from mushrooms, including soluble carbohydrates called beta-glucans from the fungal cell wall, have measurable effects upon the immune system. The relationship between these effects and the treatment of illnesses is not established. Similarly, mushrooms are a source of antioxidants, but the clinical value of these compounds is not known. A handful of critical studies have investigated these claims and provide clear suggestions for future research. Mushroom extracts are also used in cosmetic products, called cosmeceuticals, and marketed for their anti-aging properties. There is no evidence for the efficacy of these additives. Nevertheless, the biology of mushrooms suggests that they offer tremendous potential for drug discovery.Less
The final chapter addresses the value of mushroom extracts in treating varied illnesses. Marketers maintain that mushroom extracts are powerful agents in the treatment of cancer, AIDS, and other serious conditions. Few, if any, of these claims are supported by evidence from clinical trials. Extracts from mushrooms, including soluble carbohydrates called beta-glucans from the fungal cell wall, have measurable effects upon the immune system. The relationship between these effects and the treatment of illnesses is not established. Similarly, mushrooms are a source of antioxidants, but the clinical value of these compounds is not known. A handful of critical studies have investigated these claims and provide clear suggestions for future research. Mushroom extracts are also used in cosmetic products, called cosmeceuticals, and marketed for their anti-aging properties. There is no evidence for the efficacy of these additives. Nevertheless, the biology of mushrooms suggests that they offer tremendous potential for drug discovery.
Henry L. Roediger
- Published in print:
- 2002
- Published Online:
- March 2012
- ISBN:
- 9780192632326
- eISBN:
- 9780191670466
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780192632326.003.0001
- Subject:
- Psychology, Cognitive Psychology
The study of implicit memory poses challenges to the whole concept of memory, challenges with which the field has struggled ever since. This chapter presents a continuation of reflections on matters ...
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The study of implicit memory poses challenges to the whole concept of memory, challenges with which the field has struggled ever since. This chapter presents a continuation of reflections on matters related to memory and implicit memory. However, the conclusion it comes to is that the term implicit memory may have outlived its usefulness and that one gains no conceptual advantage from using this term that could not be obtained simply by calling the phenomena of interest long-term priming effects. The chapter begins with a discussion on definitions of memory. It considers why researchers have rarely worried about the breadth and scope of the concept of implicit memory.Less
The study of implicit memory poses challenges to the whole concept of memory, challenges with which the field has struggled ever since. This chapter presents a continuation of reflections on matters related to memory and implicit memory. However, the conclusion it comes to is that the term implicit memory may have outlived its usefulness and that one gains no conceptual advantage from using this term that could not be obtained simply by calling the phenomena of interest long-term priming effects. The chapter begins with a discussion on definitions of memory. It considers why researchers have rarely worried about the breadth and scope of the concept of implicit memory.
Paul Schmid-Hempel
- Published in print:
- 2013
- Published Online:
- December 2013
- ISBN:
- 9780199229482
- eISBN:
- 9780191774744
- Item type:
- chapter
- Publisher:
- Oxford University Press
- DOI:
- 10.1093/acprof:oso/9780199229482.003.0008
- Subject:
- Biology, Disease Ecology / Epidemiology, Evolutionary Biology / Genetics
This chapter talks about how virtually all parasites manipulate their hosts in various ways. This manipulation affects the immune system, host behaviour, host life-history, and many other host ...
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This chapter talks about how virtually all parasites manipulate their hosts in various ways. This manipulation affects the immune system, host behaviour, host life-history, and many other host functions. The manipulation of the immune system, in particular, can be either passive or active, wherein active evasion involves the production of molecules that actively interfere with the host immune system. The chapter also discusses immune evasion, which targets all major steps of the immune response, namely: recognition, signaling, and effector systems. It observes that the effort which parasites should invest in manipulation varies based on certain factors, one of which includes the defence level of the host. One strategy for parasites is that they might force hosts into cooperation by having hosts not defend themselves too strongly. This, however, depends on whether the parasites can increase damage in strongly defending hosts.Less
This chapter talks about how virtually all parasites manipulate their hosts in various ways. This manipulation affects the immune system, host behaviour, host life-history, and many other host functions. The manipulation of the immune system, in particular, can be either passive or active, wherein active evasion involves the production of molecules that actively interfere with the host immune system. The chapter also discusses immune evasion, which targets all major steps of the immune response, namely: recognition, signaling, and effector systems. It observes that the effort which parasites should invest in manipulation varies based on certain factors, one of which includes the defence level of the host. One strategy for parasites is that they might force hosts into cooperation by having hosts not defend themselves too strongly. This, however, depends on whether the parasites can increase damage in strongly defending hosts.
