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Pituitary hormones modulate cell-cell interactions between thymocytes and thymic epithelial cells
V de Mello-Coelho1, D M Villa-Verde, M Dardenne
1Department of Immunology, Institute Oswaldo Cruz, Foundation Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Journal of Neuroimmunology
|June 1, 1997
Summary
Pituitary hormones like prolactin (PRL) and growth hormone (GH) enhance thymic epithelial cell interactions with thymocytes. This involves upregulating extracellular matrix components, crucial for T-cell differentiation in the thymus.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Endocrinology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The thymus is essential for T-cell differentiation.
- Thymic epithelial cells form a critical microenvironment.
- Neuroendocrine axes influence thymic epithelial cell function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of prolactin (PRL) and growth hormone (GH) on thymic epithelial cells.
- To elucidate the role of extracellular matrix (ECM) ligands and receptors in hormone-mediated thymocyte interactions.
Main Methods:
- Cultured mouse thymic epithelial cells and a thymic epithelial cell line were used.
- Hormonal treatments included PRL, GH, and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I).
- Antibodies against fibronectin, laminin, VLA-5, and VLA-6 were employed to block interactions.
Main Results:
- PRL and GH upregulated ECM ligands and receptors in thymic epithelial cells, potentially via IGF-I.
- PRL, GH, and IGF-I enhanced thymocyte release and reconstitution of thymic nurse cells.
- Hormone treatment increased thymocyte adhesion, an effect inhibited by antibodies to ECM components and their receptors.
Conclusions:
- Pituitary hormones (PRL, GH) modulate thymic epithelial cell-thymocyte interactions.
- These interactions are partially mediated by enhanced expression of ECM ligands and receptors.
- Findings highlight the role of neuroendocrine signals in regulating thymic immune cell development.