PSYC 328 Chapter Notes - Chapter 14: Epstein–Barr Virus, Natural Killer Cell, Virus Latency

• School: McGill University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYC 328
• Professor: Barbel Knauper

Document Summary

Psychoneuroimmunology: interactions among behavioural, neuroendocrine, and immunological processes of adaptation. Counting the numbers of t, b, and nk cells, assessing the amount of circulating lymphokines or antibody levels in the blood: assessing the functioning of immune cells. Examining the activation, proliferation, transformation, and cytotoxicity of cells. If our bodies begin to produce antibodies to these inactive viruses (e. g. epstein-barr virus, herpes simplex virus) immune system is not working well enough to control these latent viruses. Consequently, levels of antibodies to these latent viruses constitute a third type of measure of how well the immune system is functioning: producing antibodies to a vaccine. Vaccination for particular disorders, the degree to which the body is able to produce antibodies to the vaccine is a sign of good functioning. Hepatitis b vaccinations, lower antibody response poorer initial t cell proliferation response to mitogenic stimulation and by negative affect. Higher stress exposure, substance use more likely inadequate antibody titre.