Cytokines and cognitive function in mice

A bidirectional flow of informations exists between the central nervous system and the immune system. Cytokines play a crucial role in this communication and exert several neuromodulatory actions. This short review considers some data concerning the effects of several cytokines, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-2, IL-6 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor on scopolamine-induced amnesia for a passive avoidance response, and on hippocampal neurotransmitter amino acid levels in mice. We interpret these behavioral and biochemical observations to indicate that the cytokine-to-brain communication can result in alterations in brain functions.