Effects of Environmental Stressors and Immunosuppressants on Immunity in Fundulus heteroclitus

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Abstract
Environmental stressors have been shown to alter immunocompetence in mammals. Similar effects have been reported in fish. The purpose of this paper is to review the literature concerning the white blood cells and immunity in Fundulus heteroclitus. Evidence for immunosuppression following prolonged captivity, handling, hypophysectomy, radiation, changes in temperature and salinity, and exposure to chemicals including environmental pollutants is discussed. New evidence for immunosuppression following exposure to benzo-a-pyrene, pentachlorophenol, and hexachlorobenzene is presented. Possible mechanisms of immune alteration and the consequences to F. heteroclitus are discussed.

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