The proper function of cells, receptors, and soluble mediators involved in the immune response is associated with the health of individuals. However hyper- or hyporeactive immune responses are associated with broad-spectrum diseases, like chronic inflammatory diseases, infections, allergies, autoimmune diseases, and immunodeficiencies. Several factors could contribute to the deregulation of the immune response; some of them involve the genetic and environmental factors as well as the individual's perception.

In recent years, an immunomodulatory effect of apparently unrelated molecules such as hormones and neurotransmitters on the immune response has been reported and the potential therapeutic effect has been identified.

In addition to modulating the immune response, some experimental therapies have been developed using different antigenic sources, concentrations, and routes of administration. For these reasons the investigation of molecules and compounds with immunomodulatory properties promises the development of new therapeutic approaches for a wide range of ailments.

We invite authors to submit original research and review articles that show the immunomodulatory effects of classical and nonclassical molecules and compounds in clinical and experimental models for the therapeutic approach in chronic inflammatory diseases, infections, allergies, autoimmune diseases, and immunodeficiencies. Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• Modulation of immune response by:
  • Neurotransmitters
  • Hormones
  • Acute or chronic stress
  • Extracts from microorganisms or similar compounds
  • Antibodies
  • Cytokines, soluble receptors, and related molecules
  • Biodrugs
  • New or experimental immunosuppressant drugs

Before submission authors should carefully read over the journal’s Author Guidelines, which are located at http://www.hindawi.com/journals/jir/guidelines/. Prospective authors should submit an electronic copy of their complete manuscript through the journal Manuscript Tracking System at http://mts.hindawi.com/submit/journals/jir/cei/ according to the following timetable: