Description
Comparative Mammalian Immunology: The Evolution and Diversity of the Immune Systems of Mammals provides a review on the current knowledge of mammalian immune systems from a comparative viewpoint. This reference encompasses recent work on the immune systems of marine mammals, bats and marsupials in addition to other lesser-known species, with the immune systems of humans and laboratory mice as components of chapters on primates and rodents respectively. The book also makes use of the most recent studies on the genomic sequences of the mammals to identify both common and unique features of each mammal's immune system.The book elucidates the complex, but coordinated and controlled series of interactions involving cells and molecules that has evolved to protect the host against disease. Mammals consist of a highly diverse group of animals in which the immune system has been subjected to a variety of selective pressures. This is reflected in differences in the organization and function of their immune systems, and is especially seen in those gene families characterized by complexity and polymorphism.- Demonstrates multiple diverse pathways and mechanisms to optimize resistance and survival in the face of infectious diseases- Shows the clear patterns of emergence of different immunologic traits among the diverse orders of mammals- Reflects issues with innate or adaptive immune systems- Serves as a comprehensive review of the current state of knowledge of the immune system of each mammalian order
Table of Contents
SECTION 1: MAMMALIAN IMMUNOLOGY1. The phylogeny of the mammals2. The evolution of viviparity3. The evolution of lactation4. Endothermy5. The mammalian microbiota and its role in the evolution of the immune system6. Innate immunity in mammals 7. The evolution of the major histocompatibility complex and kir receptors8. The generation of b cell and t cell antigen diversity9. Mammalian lymphoid systems10. Mammalian longevity and aging SECTION 2: MAMMALIAN ORDERS11. Monotremes: Echidnas and platypus12. Marsupials: Koalas and kangaroos13. Placentals: Cetartiodactyla: camels and llamas14. Cetartiodactyla: Pigs and peccaries15. Ruminants: Cattle, and sheep16. Cetaceans: Dolphins and whales17. Chiropterans: Bats18. Carnivora19. Perissodactyls: Horses20. Lagomorphs: Rabbits21. Rodents: Rats and mice22. Primates: Monkeys, apes, and humans23. Paenungulates: Elephants and sirenians24. Xenarthrans: Sloths and anteaters25. Synthesis
