---

Introduction: An association between depression and altered immunity has been suggested by a number of studies but has not been consistently demonstrated .The effect of maternal depression response on fetal immune system have not been investigated. Thus in this study we evaluated the effects of depression on some parameters of innate and humoral immune system of pregnant women and their infants. Materials and Methods: 62 pregnant women (including 32 depressed and 30 healthy) and their infants in Taleghani hospital of Arak in 2004 were included in this study. All depressed mothers had a diagnosis of depression by Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and clinical interview based on DSM-IV system. The level of immunoglobulins and components were evaluated by single radial immunosdiffusion (SRID) method of Mancini. Leukocyte and lymphocyte counts were determined by Hycel (an automated cell counter) and for more accurancy were also evaluated by manual method. Statistical analysis was performed using K-S, Mann-Withney, One way ANOVA, Kruskal-Wallis and Pearson tests. P<0/05 was considered significant. Results: Serum IgM level and serum C4 level of infants of mothers with depression were significantly lower than infants of healthy mothers. Lymphocyte number and percentage in infants of depressed mothers was also significantly higher than infants of healthy mothers. The mean cord/maternal blood ratio of IgG in infants of depressed mothers was also significantly lower than infants of healthy mothers. Serum IgG level of depressed mother was significantly higher than other mothers. Conclusion: Fetal impact of stress and depression during pregnancy is just beginning to be understood and research in this area is developing. Our results indicated that maternal depression adversely affects the development and function of fetal immune system. These results are in agreement with the immunological findings of preterm and LBW infants.

---

Background: Stress gradually makes immune system weak and suppresses it, therefore makes body susceptible to various types of diseases, and may delay the healing of the wound. The aim of this study was to show the effects of cold and immobilization stresses on wound healing in Balb/c mice. Materials and Methods: In an interventional study 30 female Balb/c mice were divided into 3 groups randomly. First and second groups were exposed to cold and immobilization stresses respectively and third group (control group) left with no stress. Wound healing was checked every other day and compared with each other. Results: Results showed that the mean of wound sizes of stressed groups was bigger than control group (p<0.05).The wounds healing duration was 11 days in control group and 15 days in test groups. Conclusions:Stress has negative effect on wound healing, therefore a peaceful and calm environment is recommended for patients with serious injuries.

---

Background:Noticing the side effects associated with chemical drugs, using natural medicinal plants has gained more prominence recently. Physalis alkekengi extract is a medicinal plant belonging to Solanaceae family which similar to most drugs used in traditional medicine, despite possessing a multitude of medicinal properties, has not received sufficient attention. The aim of the present study was to briefly review the effects of Physalis alkekengi extract on the concentration of thyroid hormones, blood cholesterol, some plasma biochemical factors, liver function, immune system, and sexual hormones. Due to the extensive usage of Physalis alkekengi extract in traditional medicine, determining its advantages and possible side effects is of great physiologic and pharmacologic significance. Physalis alkekengi extract due to the presence of such effective substances as alkaloids, lycopene, glucocorticoids, alcoholic agents, and a large amount of vitamin C as well as antioxidant properties can play a significant role in changes in body homeostasis. This study dealt with the function and effect of Physalis alkekengi extract on different body organs through using proper keywords and extensive online search through electronic databases and credible sources. The results of this mini-review showed that Physalis alkekengi extract can bring about various significant changes in different body organs that have not been properly recognized. Therefore, further and more extensive studies should be done on this plant.