The project is designed to assess the importance of the early rearing environment in the development of the immune system. It will examine the development of immune function in two groups of differentially-reared rhesus monkeys, and how that development might be affected by the interaction of psychosocial and physiological factors. Physical development, behavioral maturation, and psychological status of the monkeys will be assessed and related to "in vitro" immune measures, which will provide information on the development of the immune system, especially the "T cells." A series of vaccinations will provide an actual "in vivo" measure of the significance of the "in vitro" tests. This study has relevance to both animals and humans. Current research in this new field suggests that the stresses, both physiological and psychological, associated with the differential rearing may result in an increased susceptibility to disease, and perhaps a long-term alteration in immune state. In humans, there is evidence of a higher incidence of disease among children who have experienced a traumatic loss or separation. The role of the early rearing environment in disease susceptibility is especially important because infants are increasingly being cared for in day-care centers for long periods of time. The results of this important research will provide information on how to optimize the care and health of children. In addition, the information obtained can be used to instruct zoos and research centers on how to provide the best rearing environments for their animals.
