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People, Parasites, and Plowshares: Learning From Our Body's Most Terrifying Invaders

Online ISBN:
9780231535267
Print ISBN:
9780231161947
Publisher:
Columbia University Press
Book

People, Parasites, and Plowshares: Learning From Our Body's Most Terrifying Invaders

Published:
16 July 2013
Online ISBN:
9780231535267
Print ISBN:
9780231161947
Publisher:
Columbia University Press

Abstract

This account of the biology, behavior, and history of parasites follows the interplay between these fascinating life forms and human society over thousands of years. The book focuses on long-term host-parasite associations, which have evolved to avoid or even subvert the human immune system. Some parasites do great damage to their hosts, while others have signed a kind of “peace treaty” in exchange for their long lives within them. Many parasites also practice clever survival strategies that medical scientists hope to mimic as they search for treatments for Crohn's disease, food allergies, type 1 diabetes, organ transplantation, and other medical challenges. The text concentrates on particularly remarkable and often highly pathogenic organisms, describing their lifecycles and the mechanisms they use to avoid elimination. It details their attack and survival plans and the nature of the illnesses they cause in general terms, enabling readers of all backgrounds to steal a glimpse into the secret work of such effective invaders. The text also points to the cultural contexts in which these parasites thrive and reviews the current treatments available to defeat them.

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