Neurohormonal-cytokine interactions: Implications for inflammation, common human diseases and well-being
Section snippets
Cytokines and allergy/atopy
Allergic diseases, such as asthma, seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis, eczema and IgE-mediated food allergy, are characterized by dominant Th2 responses, overproduction of histamine and a shift to IgE production (Humbert et al., 1999, Wills-Karp, 2001). The Th2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-13 induce B lymphocytes to express the ɛ-germeline gene transcript, an essential precursor for immunoglobulin heavy chain rearrangement and IgE antibody (Ab) production. IL-5 is selective for eosinophils (Eo)
Neurohormonal regulation of cytokine production
The brain affects the immune system through the neuroendocrine humoral outflow via the pituitary, and through direct neuronal influences via the sympathetic, parasympathetic (cholinergic) and peptidergic/sensory innervation of peripheral tissues including lymphoid organs and blood vessels (Fig. 1). Cytokine regulation is traditionally linked to the effects of immuno-genetic factors operating exclusively within the immune system. Evidence accumulated over the last 2–3 decades indicates, however,
Implications for inflammation, common human diseases and well-being
Complex interactions exist between cytokines, inflammation and the adaptive responses in maintaining homeostasis, health and well-being. The inflammatory reaction, like the stress response is crucial for survival of the self and species. Also, like the stress response, inflammation is meant to be tailored to the stimulus and time-limited. A fully fledged systemic inflammatory reaction results in stimulation of four major programs: (1) the acute phase reaction, (2) the sickness syndrome, (3) the
Conclusions
The CNS and the immune system are the two major adaptive systems of the body (Elenkov et al., 2000). Inflammation, and particularly chronic inflammation of varying types, as a result of the failure of these two major adaptive systems to respond and resolve it, affect the well-being of the individual, including behavioral parameters, such as cognitive ability, performance, affect and sleep, as well as indices of metabolic and cardiovascular health that are known to influence human life
Acknowledgement
This work was supported by a Marie Curie International Reintegration Grant (I.J.E.) within the 6th European Community Framework Program.
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