One of the roundworm secreted neuro-peptides is vasoactive intestinal polypeptide, VIP, which appears to be associated with orthostatic intolerance. VIP is also involved in destabilizing mast cells which are otherwise very important in fighting intercellular parasites like roundworms. Animals infected with chronic filarial roundworms have abnormal cardiovascular reflexes. However, autonomic symptoms may very well prove to be an incidental consequences of what looks like the primary function of VIP secretion which is to disrupt the anti-parasitic mast cell response. The humeral response appears to be the main arm of the immune system which is most effective against intercellular pathogens like roundworms.
Some species deplete serotonin in the host's tissues.
Dr. Klapow is currently working on a diagnostic DNA test for C. pulmoni. Currently, the only way to detect the organism is to spend many hours looking through the microscope at sputum samples. I would welcome your personal contribution to this collection of information. Bonsai images by Horace Vallas .