Neuroimmunology is a rapidly-growing branch of biomedical science that studies of all aspects of the interactions between the immune system and nervous system. It deals with, among other things, the physiological functioning of the neuroimmune system in states of both health and disease; malfunctions of the neuroimmune system in disorders (autoimmune diseases, hypersensitivities, immune deficiency), the physical, chemical and physiological characteristics of the components of the neuroimmune system in vitro, in situ, and in vivo. Despite the brain's status as an immune privileged site, an extensive bi-directional communication takes place between the nervous and the immune system in both health and disease. Immune cells and neuroimmune molecules such as cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors modulate brain function through multiple signalling pathways throughout the lifespan. Immunological, physiological and psychological stressors engage cytokines and other immune molecules as mediators of interactions with neuroendocrine, neuropeptide, and neurotransmitter systems. For example, brain cytokine levels increase following stress exposure, while treatments designed to alleviate stress reverse this effect. This book presents leading research in the field.

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

The brain is an enormously dynamic organ. Even when we sleep connections are made, signals sent and messages delivered. One of the key ways that the brain operates is via chemical stimuli which permits different parts of the brain to communicate between themselves and with the rest of the body. Determining what these chemicals, proteins and molecules are is an important way to not only discover how the brain works, but provide novel targets that may be useful in the treatment of disease, for instance in dealing with memory loss in dementia. This new book brings together international research in a broad range of topics, including molecular and cellular neurochemistry, neuropharmacology and genetic aspects of CNS function, neuroimmunology, metabolism, as well as the neurochemistry of neurological and psychiatric disorders of the CNS.

For many years, the immune and central nervous systems were thought to function independently with little or no interaction between the two. This view has und- gone dramatic changes over the past three decades. Indeed, we now know that there exists various feedback loops between the brain and immune systems that impact signi cantly upon different behavioral processes, including normal behavior and mental disorders. Pioneering efforts in generating this change were initiated by a number of early investigators. Included were those whose efforts were directed at establishing neuroimmune connections as well as others whose research focused upon the relationship between immunity, cytokines, and behavior. This book brings together outstanding scientists and clinicians who have made major contributions to the rapidly developing eld investigating the relationship between immunity and behavior. The book is divided into three parts. The rst part describes pathways by which the brain and immune systems communicate and int- act with each other. In the chapter “Cytokines and the Blood–Brain Barrier” p- vides insight into interactions between the blood–brain barrier and cytokines. Such interactions underlie basic communication between the immune system and brain that are present in normal as well as in disease conditions. In the chapter “Neu- chemical and Endocrine Responses to Immune Activation: The Role of Cytokines,” the neurochemical and endocrine consequences of immune challenge and cytokine administration on central neurotransmitter activity are discussed.

This book provides a clinical focus on neuroinflammatory diseases as well as a review in pathophysiology and treatment approaches. Organized into six parts, the book begins with a basic review of the immune system and concepts for learning and treating neuroimmune conditions. The next four sections cover specific subfields of neuroimmunology and autoimmune neurology - the clinical and diagnostic features of multiple sclerosis, other autoimmune conditions of the central nervous system, autoimmune conditions of the peripheral nervous system, and systemic autoimmune conditions that affect the nervous system. To conclude, Section six discusses various clinical approaches to specific presentations in neuroimmunology, including pediatric demyelinating diseases. These sections provide practical clinical information to improve the reader’s knowledge in this complex field. The chapters are written by world renown authors with extensive knowledge to help provide up to date information. The full scope of autoimmune neurology is discussed, which is a unique feature of this book. Neuroimmunology serves as a resource for those in training including residents and fellows to provide clear clinical reasoning and background in a rapidly advancing field.

Clinical Neuroimmunology: Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders serves as an indispensable resource for physicians interested in, and dealing with, this very complex and evolving branch of neurology. This comprehensive title provides an introduction to basic neuroimmunology and principles of immunotherapy and also serves as a thorough guide to immune-mediated disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system, as well as other systemic disorders with a significant neuroimmunologic component. The chapters are written by experts in their fields and include the most up to date scientific information. This volume is made to simplify complex immunological mechanisms and to focus on practical patient-related issues. Clinical Neuroimmunology: Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders is an invaluable addition to the literature and will be of significant interest to neurologists, residents and fellows, internists, and general practitioners who treat patients with neurologic disorders and other systemic autoimmune diseases.