In order to understand common conditions such as coeliac disease and Crohn's disease one must
view the gut in its evolutionary context. This is the novel approach to the gut and its
diseases that is adopted in this book. The first part tells the story of the evolution of the
gut itself - why it came about and how it has influenced the evolution of animals ever since.
The second part focuses on the evolution of immunity and how the layers of immune mechanisms
are retained in the gut resembling the strata revealed in an archeological dig. The final part
'The Gastro-Archeologist' ties the first two together and highlights how understanding the gut
and immune system in their evolutionary context can help us understand diseases affecting
them.Ambitious in its scope but telling a unique story from a refreshingly novel perspective
the book offers an informative and enjoyable read. As the story of the gut immunity and
disease unfolds the author aims to endow readers with the same sense of awe and excitement
that the subject evokes in him. Difficult concepts are illustrated using simple and colourful
analogies and the main content is supplemented with anecdotes and unusual and amusing facts
throughout the book. The book is intended for anyone with an interest in the gut its immunity
and diseases ranging from school and college biology and biomedical students to professionals
working in the field and to patients suffering from intestinal diseases who want to understand
more about their conditions.
