Immunophysiology of the Gut

This volume integrates knowledge of physiology and the mucosal immune system by providing a systematic survey of the information available on the immunophysiology of the gut. The text features contributions from mucosal immunologists, physiologists and enteric neurophysiologists, who critically evaluate the significance of their findings. This book describes the concept of gut immunophysiology and emphasizes the association between lymphocytes (and their soluble products) and the function of the gastrointestinal tract. It presents information on how the role of nutrition effects both GI hormone release and lymphoid cytokine release, both of which influence physiologic processes. This volume also discusses key issues, such as the role of lymphokines on mucosal function, endocrine control of mucosal immune function and the effects of nutrition and malnutrition on GI function