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[Basic aspects of neuroendocrinoimmunology]
S G Correa1, M C Rodríguez-Galán, C E Sotomayor
1Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas Universidad Nacional de Córdoba.
Summary
The brain and immune system communicate bidirectionally via the neuroendocrine and autonomic pathways. Stress and immune responses, like Candida albicans infection, significantly impact the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Psychoneuroimmunology
Context:
- The brain and immune system are intricately linked through neural and endocrine pathways.
- The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is a primary mediator of brain influence on immune responses.
- Immune cell activation can reciprocally influence central nervous system functions.
Purpose:
- To elucidate the fundamental interactions between the neuroendocrine and immune systems.
- To explore the bidirectional communication channels, including the autonomic nervous system and HPA axis.
- To examine the effects of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and neurohormones on immune cells.
Summary:
- The brain communicates with the immune system via the autonomic nervous system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis.
- Neurotransmitters and neurohormones influence immune cell function, with receptors present on these cells.
- Immune system activation, through cytokines, can modulate HPA axis activity, demonstrating a two-way communication.
Impact:
- Provides foundational understanding of neuroendocrine-immune system crosstalk.
- Highlights the role of the HPA axis in mediating stress and immune interactions.
- Offers insights into the effects of chronic stress and infection models on this communication axis.