Publisher's Synopsis
This is collection of papers from an International Symposium on neuropeptide research. The papers cover different aspects of the subject, from that of molecular genetics and the cellular level to that of the interaction of entire organisms. The organismic approach is essential for the understanding of the role of neuropeptides in the interactions between the nervous system and "immunocytes".;In its course the symposium raised questions about the release and the control of the release of "classic" transmitters and neuropeptides. The site of this release and the release of control agents for "classic" transmitters and neuropeptides was also discussed. Transmitter receptor synthesis and the incorporation into membranes was also considered. The role of neuropeptides in haemocyte production and "stress" was discussed as were the methods of experimentation needed to explore the role and release control of neuropeptides from haematocytes attached to endothelium. Finally the role of haematocytes as floating synaptosomes was considered.;The chapters included in this book discuss these topics and attend to some of the questions raised by the Symposium. The chapters are grouped in sections for taxonomis reasons: because of their natural, evolutionary relationship, molluscs, or arthropods, or mammals, have special features which make comparisons within the taxonomic group easier than comparison between groups, although cross-comparisons are possible.;This book does not cover the entire field of neuropeptide research, but its strength lies in its interdisciplinary approach.