Harderian Glands: Porphyrin Metabolism, Behavioral, and Endocrine Effects

The Harderian glands, located within the orbital cavities of amphibia, reptiles, birds and most mammals, are perhaps one of the last discrete tissues for which we connot yet define a normal physiological role or regulation. The book brings together all known information on the Harderian glands. It covers comparative anatomy at several levels, the concentrations and regulation of indole and catecholamines, porphyrins, peptides and lipids, and the interactions of the Harderian glands with the thyroid and pineal glands. One chapter is devoted to the avian Harderian glands and their role in the immune response, and another to the glands in amphibia and reptiles. Containing a master bibliographic compilation of all known literature on the Harderian glands the book represents a valuable reference source which offers new or established investigators a ready and convenient base of information.