Interleukin-10 regulated gene expression in cells of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis origin
Huolin Tu1, Peter L Rady, Terry Juelich
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555-1019, USA.
Aim:
The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis is a mediator for interactions between the immune and neuroendocrine systems. Pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) have been shown to activate the HPA axis. Recently, interleukin-10, an important anti-inflammatory cytokine in the immune system, has been shown to be expressed in the central nervous system and neuroendocrine system. Little is known, however, about IL-10's functions in the HPA axis.
Methods:
The Affymetrix DNA microarray (mouse genome U74Av2 Probe Array) was conducted to determine the gene expression profile regulated by IL-10 in cells of HPA axis origin.
Results:
In this study, we analyzed gene expression regulated by IL-10 in cells derived from the HPA axis. The results showed that quorums of genes are modulated by IL-10 in these neuroendocrine cells.
Conclusions:
These findings will provide a valuable repository to aid in understanding IL-10's functions in the HPA axis at the molecular level.
Related Concept Videos
Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis
T Cell Types and Functions
Th1 cells stimulate dendritic cells to express necessary co-stimulatory molecules on their surfaces for...
Cushing Syndrome II: Pathophysiology
Regulation of Hormone Secretion
Humoral stimuli,...
Hormones of the Adrenal Glands
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and corticosterone...
Sympathetic Pathways: Collateral Ganglia and Adrenal Medulla
Collateral Ganglia
Sympathetic preganglionic axons reach the collateral ganglia along the route of splanchnic nerves. These nerves bypass the sympathetic trunk and communicate with sympathetic postganglionic neurons housed in the prevertebral ganglia. These ganglia supply the organs of the abdominopelvic cavity.
The greater splanchnic nerve, formed by the...

