Download or read book Effects of Pregnancy and Hormones on T cell Immune Regulation in Multiple Sclerosis written by Sandra Hellberg and published by Linköping University Electronic Press. This book was released on 2019-10-22 with total page 118 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is characterized by a dysregulated immune system leading to chronic inflammation in the central nervous system. Despite increasing number of treatments, many patients continue to deteriorate. A better understanding of the underlying disease mechanisms involved in driving disease is a pre-requisite for finding new biomarkers and new treatment targets. The improvement of MS during pregnancy, comparable to the beneficial effects of the most effective treatment, suggests that the transient and physiological immune tolerance established during pregnancy could serve as a model for successful immune regulation. Most likely the immune-endocrine alterations that take place during pregnancy to accommodate the presence of the semi-allogenic fetus contribute to the observed disease improvement. The aim of this thesis was to characterize the dysregulated immune system in MS and define potential factors and mechanisms established during pregnancy that could be involved in the pregnancy-induced effects in MS, focusing on CD4+ T cells as one of the main drivers in immunity and in the MS pathogenesis. Using a network-based modular approach based on gene expression profiling, we could show that CD4+ T cells from patients with MS displayed an altered dynamic gene response to activation, in line with a dysregulated immune system in MS. The resulting gene module disclosed cell activation and chemotaxis as central components in the deviating response, results that form a basis for further studies on its modulation during pregnancy. Moreover, a combination of secreted proteins (OPN+CXCL1-3+CXCL10-CCL2), identified from the module, could be used to separate patients and controls, predict disease activity after 2 years and discriminate between high and low responders to treatment, highlighting their potential use as biomarkers for predicting disease activity and response to treatment. The pregnancy hormone progesterone (P4), a potential factor involved in the pregnancy-induced amelioration of MS, was found to significantly dampen CD4+ T cell activation. Further detailed transcriptomic profiling revealed that P4 almost exclusively down-regulated immune-related pathways in activated T cells, several related to or downstream of T cell activation such as JAKSTAT signaling, T cell receptor signaling and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction. In particular, P4 significantly affected genes of relevance to diseases known to be modulated during pregnancy, where genes associated to MS were most significantly affected, supporting a role for P4 in the pregnancy-induced immunomodulation. By using another approach, the role of thymus in T cell regulation during pregnancy was assessed. Two established measures of thymic output, CD31 expression and TREC content, were used and showed that thymic output of T cells is maintained during human pregnancy, or even possibly increased in terms of regulatory T cells. This thesis further supports a pivotal role for CD4+ T cells and T cell activation in the MS pathogenesis and adds to the knowledge of how they could be involved in driving disease. We identified a novel strategy for capturing central aspects of the deviating response to T cell activation that could be translated into potentially clinically relevant biomarkers. Further, P4 is emerging as a promising candidate for the pregnancy-induced immunomodulation that could be of importance as a future treatment option. Lastly, maintained thymic output of T cells during human pregnancy challenges the rodent-based dogma of an inactive thymus during pregnancy. Thymic dysfunction has been reported not only in MS but also in rheumatoid arthritis, another inflammatory disease that improves during pregnancy, which highlights a potential role for thymus in immune regulation that could be involved in the pregnancy-induced amelioration.
Download or read book Immunology of Pregnancy written by Udo R. Markert and published by Karger Medical and Scientific Publishers. This book was released on 2005-01-01 with total page 201 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book presents the discipline of immunology which studies a unique physiological phenomenon contradicting many of the generally established rules in the field: immunology of pregnancy. It provides a wide overview of the current research of this topic. Prominent and leading international groups contributed by reviewing the most significant findings in the field.
Download or read book Women s Health and Menopause written by R.A. Lobo and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2012-12-06 with total page 444 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The 4th International Symposium on Women's Health and Menopause, organized by the Giovanni Lorenzini Medical Foundation (Milan, Italy and Houston, Texas) focused on the new strategies to improve the quality of life of post-menopausal women. This volume illustrates the findings of this conference and includes information on the age-related degenerative processes occurring after menopause including cardiovascular disease, cancer, fractures and dementia.
Download or read book Mechanisms of Life History Evolution written by Thomas Flatt and published by OUP Oxford. This book was released on 2011-05-12 with total page 506 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Life history theory seeks to explain the evolution of the major features of life cycles by analyzing the ecological factors that shape age-specific schedules of growth, reproduction, and survival and by investigating the trade-offs that constrain the evolution of these traits. Although life history theory has made enormous progress in explaining the diversity of life history strategies among species, it traditionally ignores the underlying proximate mechanisms. This novel book argues that many fundamental problems in life history evolution, including the nature of trade-offs, can only be fully resolved if we begin to integrate information on developmental, physiological, and genetic mechanisms into the classical life history framework. Each chapter is written by an established or up-and-coming leader in their respective field; they not only represent the state of the art but also offer fresh perspectives for future research. The text is divided into 7 sections that cover basic concepts (Part 1), the mechanisms that affect different parts of the life cycle (growth, development, and maturation; reproduction; and aging and somatic maintenance) (Parts 2-4), life history plasticity (Part 5), life history integration and trade-offs (Part 6), and concludes with a synthesis chapter written by a prominent leader in the field and an editorial postscript (Part 7).
Download or read book Sex and Gender Differences in Infection and Treatments for Infectious Diseases written by Sabra L. Klein and published by Springer Nature. This book was released on 2023-09-11 with total page 282 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This fully revised and significantly expanded second edition examines sex and gender differences in the immune system's response to bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. The volume discusses both common and distinct molecular mechanisms that mediate these differences and illustrates how responses to vaccines may differ between the sexes and in pregnant individuals. Special emphasis is placed on the interplay between hormones and the immune system in the pathogenesis of HIV, SARS-CoV-2, influenza, malaria, tuberculosis, and amebiasis. This second edition includes completely rewritten chapters as well as all new contents. This book is intended for researchers in academia and industry as well as clinicians in the fields of microbiology, immunology, and pharmacology. By expanding knowledge in sex and gender medicine as a basis for developing personalized treatment strategies, the book contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals 3 (health and well-being) and 5 (gender equality).
Download or read book Translational Neuroimmunology in Multiple Sclerosis written by Ruth Arnon and published by Academic Press. This book was released on 2016-05-10 with total page 504 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common disabling neurological disease of young adults. More than 2.3 million people are affected by MS worldwide. Symptoms can vary widely, depending on the localization and amount of the damage induced by combined inflammatory, demyelinating, and neurodegenerative processes. Although a cure for MS does not currently exist, therapies can help treat MS attacks, attenuate disease activity, reduce progress of the disease, and manage symptoms. Translational Neuroimmunology in Multiple Sclerosis provides an overview of recent findings and knowledge of the neuroimmunology of multiple sclerosis, from experimental models and the human disease to the translation of this research to immunotherapeutic strategies. Chapters describe genetic and environmental factors underlying the disease pathogenesis of MS as a basis for development of immunotherapies, immunological markers of disease activity, pharmacogenetics, and responses to therapy. Immunomodulatory therapies currently in practice and future therapeutic strategies on the horizon—such as neuroprotective strategies, stem cells, and repair promotion—are discussed. Contributed by renowned leaders in the field, this cross-disciplinary volume is a great resource for basic scientists and clinical practitioners in neuroscience, neurology, immunology, pharmacology, and in-drug development. Provides an overview of recent findings and knowledge of the neuroimmunology of multiple sclerosis and the translation of this research to immunotherapy treatment Edited by renowned leaders in the field of neuroimmunology and multiple sclerosis Contains the latest resource material for basic and clinical scientists and practitioners in neuroscience, neurology, immunology, and pharmacology
Download or read book Neuroendocrine immune Interactions written by Rolf C. Gaillard and published by Karger Medical and Scientific Publishers. This book was released on 2002 with total page 144 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Interactions between the immune, endocrine and nervous systems seldom appear as main issues in the neurosciences and in immunology. So far this was most likely due to the need to focus on the molecular and cellular bases of single neural, endocrine and immune processes. But hormones, neurotransmitters and neuropeptides can also influence more subtle mechanisms underlying immune cell activity. The contents of this volume aim at listing some aspects which show that not only the bases for neuroendocrine control of more refined mechanisms related to the organization and functioning of the immune systems to exist, but also that the immune system can actively communicate with neuroendocrine structures. The evidence is divided into three categories: - Anatomical, cellular and molecular bases for the exchange of information between immune, endocrine and neural cells, - reciprocal effects between immune and neuroendocrine mechanisms, and - immune-neuroendocrine regulatory circuits. Immunologically triggered neuroendocrine responses can be either beneficial or deleterious for the host. A systematic approach would imply the simultaneous evaluation of neuroendocrine and immune parameters and thus provide the basis for therapeutic interventions based on antagonizing or blocking undesirable effects.
Download or read book Steroids and the Nervous System written by GianCarlo Panzica and published by . This book was released on 2003 with total page 424 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This volume covers emerging and intriguing topics related to research into steroids and the nervous system, with a major focus on glucocorticoids, non-classical mechanism of action, regulation of reproduction, steroids and glial cells, behavioural effects and pathological correlations.
Download or read book Multiple Sclerosis written by Institute of Medicine and published by National Academies Press. This book was released on 2001-08-10 with total page 457 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Multiple sclerosis is a chronic and often disabling disease of the nervous system, affecting about 1 million people worldwide. Even though it has been known for over a hundred years, no cause or cure has yet been discovered-but now there is hope. New therapies have been shown to slow the disease progress in some patients, and the pace of discoveries about the cellular machinery of the brain and spinal cord has accelerated. This book presents a comprehensive overview of multiple sclerosis today, as researchers seek to understand its processes, develop therapies that will slow or halt the disease and perhaps repair damage, offer relief for specific symptoms, and improve the abilities of MS patients to function in their daily lives. The panel reviews existing knowledge and identifies key research questions, focusing on: Research strategies that have the greatest potential to understand the biological mechanisms of recovery and to translate findings into specific strategies for therapy. How people adapt to MS and the research needed to improve the lives of people with MS. Management of disease symptoms (cognitive impairment, depression, spasticity, vision problems, and others). The committee also discusses ways to build and financially support the MS research enterprise, including a look at challenges inherent in designing clinical trials. This book will be important to MS researchers, research funders, health care advocates for MS research and treatment, and interested patients and their families.
Download or read book Immune Interactions during the Reproductive Cycle written by Sinuhe Hahn and published by Frontiers Media SA. This book was released on 2015-07-03 with total page 160 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Mammalian pregnancy represents a unique immunological riddle in that the mother does not reject her allogeneic fetus. In part this is largely due to a general sequestration or diminution of T cell activity, and an increased involvement of the innate immune system. The field of immunology is concerned primarily with how innate and adaptive mechanisms collaborate to protect vertebrates from infection. Although many cellular and molecular actors have evidently important roles, antibodies and lymphocytes are considered to be the principal players. Yet despite their importance, it would be definitely simplistic to conclude that they are solely essential for immunity overall. A major distinction between adaptive and innate immunity is the spontaneity of the innate immune response, which utilizes an already pre-existing but limited repertoire of responding modules. The slower onset of adaptive immunity compensates by its ability to recognize a much broader repertory of foreign substances, and also by its power to constantly improve during a response, whereas innate immunity remains relatively unaffected. The interactions between the reproductive system and the immune system are of particular interest, since the reproductive system is unique in that its primary role is to assure the continuity of the species, while the immune system provides internal protection and thus facilitates continued health and survival. The modus operandi of these two morphologically diffuse systems involves widely distributed chemical signals in response to environmental input, and both systems must interact for the normal functioning of each. Furthermore, dysregulation of normal physiological interactions between the reproductive and immune systems can lead to severe pregnancy-related disorders or complications. On the other hand, by ameliorating auto-inflammatory conditions such as MS and RA, pregnancy may provide a unique insight into novel immune modulatory strategies. The scientific focus on reproductive–immune research has historically provided substantial insight into the interface between these two physiological systems. A translational research approach would involve a tight interaction between diverse scientific and clinical disciplines including immunology, obstetrics, haematology, haemostasis and endocrinology. With so much recent progress in the field, we believe that it is valuable and well-timed to review the broad variety of the relevant physiologic and pathologic aspects – from menstruation to fertilization and implantation, and from placentation and pregnancy per se to the post partum condition - in which the immune system takes part. We are looking forward to a wide and vivid discussion of these and related issues, and we sincerely expect that our readers profoundly benefit from new exciting insights and fruitful collaborations.
Download or read book Mucosal Vaccines written by Hiroshi Kiyono and published by Elsevier. This book was released on 1996-10-23 with total page 501 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This comprehensive, authoritative treatise covers all aspects of mucosal vaccines including their development, mechanisms of action, molecular/cellular aspects, and practical applications. The contributing authors and editors of this one-of-a-kind book are very well known in their respective fields. Mucosal Vaccines is organized in a unique format in which basic, clinical, and practical aspects of the mucosal immune system for vaccine development are described and discussed. This project is endorsed by the Society for Mucosal Immunology. Provides the latest views on mucosal vaccines Applies basic principles to the development of new vaccines Links basic, clinical, and practical aspects of mucosal vaccines to different infectious diseases Unique and user-friendly organization
Download or read book Thyroid Autoimmunity written by A. Pinchera and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2012-12-06 with total page 579 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: In 1956, three groups independently reported evidence that some thyroid disease appearing spontaneously in humans or experimentally induced in animals are related to autoimmune processes. The interval between these landmark discoveries and the present has witnessed a remarkable and continuing growth of both knowledge and concepts concerning the mechanisms of immune regulation, the pathogenesis of autoimmune thyroid diseases, and their clinical and laboratory manifestations. More importantly knowledge of thyroid autoimmunity has, in many respects, comprised the vanguard of an ever increasing appreciation and understanding of autoimmune diseases in general. On November 24-26 1986, an International Symposium on Thyroid Autoimmunity was held in Pisa. Its purpose was to commemorate the birth of thyroid autoimmunity as a scientific discipline, to summarize current knowledge and concepts in this area, and where possible, to anticipate areas of opportunity for the future - hence the theme of the Symposium, Memories and Perspectives. To open the meeting, the Magnifico Rettore (Chancellor) of the University of Pisa granted special Awards to Dr. Deborah Doniach, Dr. Ivan Roitt, and Dr. Noel R. Rose, who published the first fundamental studies in the field of thyroid autoimmunity, and to Dr. Duncan G. Adams, whose discovery of the long-acting thyroid stimulator (LATS) opened the door to our current understanding of the pathogenesis of Graves' disease. During the meeting thirty plenary lectures were presented.
Download or read book Chesley s Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy written by Robert N. Taylor and published by Elsevier. This book was released on 2014-08-28 with total page 500 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Chesley’s Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy continues its tradition as one of the beacons to guide the field of preeclampsia research, recognized for its uniqueness and utility. Hypertensive disorders remain one the major causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and death. It is also a leading cause of preterm birth now known to be a risk factor in remote cardiovascular disease. Despite this the hypertensive disorders remain marginally studied and management is often controversial. The fourth edition of Chesley’s Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy focuses on prediction, prevention, and management for clinicians, and is an essential reference text for clinical and basic investigators alike. Differing from other texts devoted to preeclampsia, it covers the whole gamut of high blood pressure, and not just preeclampsia. Features new chapters focusing on recent discoveries in areas such as fetal programming, genomics/proteomics, and angiogenesis Includes extensive updates to chapters on epidemiology, etiological considerations, pathophysiology, prediction, prevention, and management Discusses the emerging roles of metabolic syndrome and obesity and the increasing incidence of preeclampsia Each section overseen by one of the editors; each chapter co-authored by one of the editors, ensuring coherence throughout book
Download or read book An Introduction to Neuroendocrinology written by Richard E. Brown and published by Cambridge University Press. This book was released on 1994-01-27 with total page 434 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book is designed as an introductory text in neuroendocrinology; the study of the interaction between the brain and endocrine system and the influence of this on behaviour. The endocrine glands, pituitary gland and hypothalamus and their interactions and hormones are discussed. The action of steroid and thyroid hormone receptors and the regulation of target cell response to hormones is examined. The function of neuropeptides is discussed with respect to the neuroendocrine system and behaviour. The neuroimmune system and lymphokines are described and the interaction between the neuroendocrine and neuroimmune systems discussed. Finally, methods for studying hormonal influences on behaviour are outlined. Each chapter has review and essay questions designed for advanced students and honours or graduate students with a background in neuroscience, respectively.
Download or read book Sex Hormones and Gender Differences in Immune Responses written by Elena Ortona and published by Frontiers Media SA. This book was released on 2019-07-31 with total page 186 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Increasingly clear evidence points to the need to consider gender differences in human health. In this collection of papers, recent research that supports gender differences in the immune system are discussed. We have loosely divided the eBook into two sections. The first section focuses on the role of steroid hormone interactions within the immune system, and their impact on autoimmune diseases, infection and allergy. This section contains comprehensive reviews and an opinion article about this topic. In the following section, original research articles revolve around the effects of the sex hormones on immune response. Two original manuscripts deal with the role of estrogen receptors in autoimmune diseases. Other two research articles discuss the role of the immune system during pregnancy. Finally, differences between males and females in infections are the topic of further two research articles. We are confident this collection of papers will be important for exploring and developing a greater understanding of gender differences in human health and disease.
Download or read book Dubois Lupus Erythematosus and Related Syndromes E Book written by Daniel J. Wallace and published by Elsevier Health Sciences. This book was released on 2023-12-04 with total page 952 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: For more than 50 years, Dubois’ Lupus Erythematosus and Related Syndromes has been recognized internationally as the go-to clinical reference on lupus and other connective tissue diseases. From basic scientific principles to practical points of clinical management, the 10th edition provides extensive, authoritative coverage of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and its related diseases in a logical, clearly written, user-friendly manner. It’s an ideal resource for rheumatologists and internal medicine practitioners who need a comprehensive clinical reference on all aspects of SLE, connective tissue diseases, and the antiphospholipid syndromes. Provides complete clinical coverage of every aspect of cutaneous and systemic lupus erythematosus, including definitions, pathogenesis, autoantibodies, clinical and laboratory features, management, prognosis, and patient education. Includes significant new content throughout: a new chapter on the endocrine system and hormones; newly distinct chapters on the heart and lung; new content on social disparities in lupus, clinical presentation of nephritis, and pulmonary hypertension; a new concluding chapter on future directions in the field; new basic science coverage of the microbiome, autoinflammatory, and monogenic lupus; and new coverage of diversity, inclusion, gender, compliance, and adherence. Offers a fresh perspective from two new associate editors and many new authors with representation from 30 countries. Contains an up-to-date overview of significant advances in cellular, molecular, and genetic technologies, including genetic advancements in identifying at-risk patients. Discusses the clinical management of related disorders such as Sjogren’s syndrome, scleroderma, polymyositis, and antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). Presents the knowledge and expertise of international contributors to provide new global perspectives on manifestations, diagnosis, and treatment. Features a vibrant, full-color format, with graphs, algorithms, differential diagnosis comparisons, new and improved figures, and schematic diagrams throughout. Additional digital ancillary content may publish up to 6 weeks following the publication date.
Download or read book Yen Jaffe s Reproductive Endocrinology E Book written by Jerome F. Strauss and published by Elsevier Health Sciences. This book was released on 2013-08-28 with total page 1232 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Yen & Jaffe’s Reproductive Endocrinology helps you successfully diagnose and manage the spectrum of female and male reproductive system diseases, from impaired fertility, infertility, and recurrent pregnancy loss through problems of sexual development, puberty, menstrual disturbances, fibroids, endometriosis, and reproductive aging. This trusted endocrinology reference book is ideal for studying or as a quick reference when making daily diagnostic and therapeutic decisions, ensuring it's just the resource you need to offer your patients the best possible care. Apply the latest reproductive endocrinology advances in basic and clinical science, including molecular, cellular, and genetic concepts, and grasp their relevance to pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapy. Maximize fertility in women and men undergoing chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, and counsel patients on environmental factors affecting reproduction. Stay on top of recent developments including the impact of obesity on fertility; ovarian tissue banking; cryopreservation; pre-implantation genetic diagnosis; ovulation induction; and risks and treatments for steroid hormone-responsive cancers. View basic anatomic structures, endocrine processes, and cell function and dysfunction with absolute clarity through full-color illustrations and new images throughout. Confidently perform procedures through expanded coverage of reproductive and infertility surgery. Apply the latest reproductive endocrinology advances in basic and clinical science, including molecular, cellular, and genetic concepts, and grasp their relevance to pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapy. Maximize fertility in women and men undergoing chemotherapy and other cancer treatments, and counsel patients on environmental factors affecting reproduction. Stay on top of recent developments including the impact of obesity on fertility; ovarian tissue banking; cryopreservation; pre-implantation genetic diagnosis; ovulation induction; and risks and treatments for steroid hormone-responsive cancers. View basic anatomic structures, endocrine processes, and cell function and dysfunction with absolute clarity through full-color illustrations and new images throughout.
