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Does the immune system communicate with the central nervous system? Interferon modifies central nervous activity.
Journal of Neuroimmunology
|July 1, 1985
Summary
Alpha-interferon (IFN) directly impacts central nervous system activity in rats, affecting brain cells and morphine withdrawal symptoms. This suggests immunomodulators influence both brain and immune functions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Immunomodulators are known to affect the immune system.
- The central nervous system (CNS) role in immune modulation is increasingly recognized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of alpha-interferon (IFN) and gamma-interferon (IFN) on CNS activity.
- To determine if these immunomodulators can alter neurophysiological and behavioral responses.
Main Methods:
- Alpha- and gamma-IFNs were administered microiontophoretically into specific rat brain regions.
- Single neuron activity was recorded from the cerebral cortex, hippocampus, thalamus, and hypothalamus.
- Behavioral effects were assessed using the naloxone-induced abstinence syndrome in morphine-dependent rats.
Main Results:
- Alpha-IFN, but not gamma-IFN, dose-dependently altered single neuron activity across all recorded brain structures.
- Systemic administration of alpha-IFN modified the naloxone-induced abstinence syndrome in morphine-dependent rats.
Conclusions:
- Alpha-interferon directly influences central nervous system function.
- Immunomodulators like alpha-IFN possess the capacity to modulate both CNS and immune system activities.