This volume explores the possible functional significance of proopiomelanocortin-derived peptides and their receptor expression in human skin. It particularly focuses on the modulation of skin immune and stress responses, and in the pathogenesis of several important skin diseases with a recognized neuroimmunologic component, such as atopic eczema, contact allergy, uticaria, and psoriasis.

These proceedings focus on different areas of research, with special emphasis on relating the state of the art (basic) neuroimmunomodulation research to its potential practical application in specific fields. Among these, the role of pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the central nervous system; peripheral mechanisms of neuroimmunomodulation; behavioural studies and immunity; and neuroimmunomodulation correlates in autoimmune disease represent areas of particular interest. Also highlighted are studies related to the role of melatonin as an immunomodulatory hormone (an area of explosive growth), as well as the emerging field of neuroendocrine regulation of haematopoiesis. Clinical studies in cancer, allergy, AIDs and other infectious diseases will focus upon neuroimmunomodulation-based mechanisms, and suggest new therapeutic approaches.

The discipline of neuroimmunomodulation is devoted to interactions between the immune nervous systems at all levels and includes observation on brain, pituitary, peripheral nervous system and immune cells. Nitric oxide synthase is contained within neurons in the brain and modifies behavioural and hormonal responses by acting on other neurons and on release of peptides and other transmitters through activation of guanylate cyclase and cyclooxygenase. Increases in this and in expression of proinflammatory cytokines can contribute to damage in patients with multiple sclerosis, Parkinsonism, meningitis, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease.

This reference presents research and clinical developments in the field, presenting comprehensive, problem-focused approaches to psychodermatology. It offers a panoramic perspective of worldwide research efforts to improve the understanding and treatment of the psychodermatological patient.

The book summarises the current understanding of the Nervous -, Endocrine and Immune systems with emphasis on shared mediators and receptors and functional interaction. In addition to the fundamental physiological and pathophysiological mechanisms, which are presented in detail, some clinically relevant subjects are also presented, such as inflammation, asthma and allergy, autoimmune disease, immunodeficiency and the acute phase response. • A comprehensive presentation of neuroimmune biology • Introduces the subject matter to the uninformed reader • Contains basic information, theoretical considerations and up-to-date clinical chapters • The clinical chapters will be helpful to practising physicians

"Natural Immunity" is a broadly-based account of the activities of the evolutionarily conserved molecules, cells and processes of the natural immune system. This encompasses the early host protection against microbes (bacteria and viruses) and tumours, prior to the generation of the adaptive immune response, diverse major current pathologies including inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, and key roles in essential physiological processes such as reproduction and wound healing. - The first comprehensive book on natural immunity - Reviews new topics, effects of behaviour, aging, and exercise, and diet on natural immunity - Highlights the physiological role of natural immunity - Focuses on the relationship of the neuroendocrine system with natural immunity - Brings together the diversity and complexity of natural immune system activity

Much anecdotal information has suggested an influence of psychology and the nervous system on immunity within the skin and the expression of inflammatory skin disorders. Recent years have seen an explosion of knowledge providing a scientific basis for important regulatory interactions between the nervous system, the endocrine system and the immune system within the skin. The results of recent investigations have important implications, not only for an understanding of cutaneous immunity, but also for the development of novel treatments for diseases involving abnormal inflammation or immune reactivity within the skin. This book provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary review of the molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry and clinical aspects of nervous system–immune system interactions within the skin. It includes contributions from leading world experts in these areas. The contents are relevant to both investigators and clinicians interested in the skin, its functions and its disorders.

The latest data and ideas concerning this rapidly growing field, coming out of laboratories in many countries, are presented in this volume, the proceedings of the First World Congress of the International Society for Neuroimmunomodulation held in May, 1990. Topics include homeostasis and immunity, cellular and molecular neuroimmunology, and psycho-neuro-immunology. Information on NIM as it relates to ageing, neurological and psychiatric disorders, infectious diseases and cancer is included.