The therapeutic potential of neuropeptides and monoamines as antagonists of lymphocyte activation

Neuropeptides and monoamines are found in tissues where immune reactions are initiated such as the skin, gut and respiratory tract. In these tissues they might influence lymphocyte activation in inflammatory diseases. Both stimulatory and inhibitory effects have been described. The inhibitory effects may prove to be of pathophysiological and pharmacological importance. Studies both in vitro and in vivo showing that various neuropeptides and monoamines may inhibit reactions such as T lymphocyte proliferation, Blymphocyte proliferation and antibody synthesis, lymphocyte migration and cytotoxicity, are reviewed.