.... It is well known that the use of this drug increases susceptibility to infections because of the impact on the modulation of the immune system. Concerning the medicinal or recreational use of marijuana, its influence on the course of an infection, whether this has been caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites...

.... Furthermore, loss of sleep is associated with changes in immune function. Specific components of microbes such as muramyl peptides or endotoxin from bacteria or double-stranded RNA from virus induce sleep responses. These microbial-induced responses are mediated via enhanced cytokine and hormone production...

... readers will find the first ever special issue devoted to neuroimmunomodulation and infectious diseases fascinating and enticing. Infectious diseases Parasites Bacteria Virus Neuroendocrine network Neuroimmunomodulation 2009;16:65 67 DOI: 10.1159/000180260 Published online: February 11, 2009...