Regulation of the Immune System by Hypothalamic Releasing Hormones.
Abstract
It has been known for many years that stressful situations can be a contributing factor in the development of a variety of bacterial, viral and neoplastic diseases. Specifically, decreased immuno-competence seems to account for the increased susceptibility of stressed hosts for these disease states. We have suggested that one mechanism by which this can occur is through the action of neuroendocrine hormones. It appears that the immune and neuroendocrine systems communicate in a bidirectional regulatory circuit by virtue of common signal molecules and receptors. In this report we discuss our findings on the amino acid sequence and post translational processing of lymphocyte derived corticotropin (ACTH). Also, presented are results that hte hypothalamic releasing hormones for luteinizing hormone (LH) and thyrotropin (TSH) induce lymphocytes to synthesize immunoreactive LH and TSH, respectively. Finally, we discuss our data that the ACTH recepto on lymphocytes acts through adenylate cyclase like the prototype on adrenal tissue. Keywords: Hypothalamic releasing hormones, Stress, Immune system, ACTH, Endorphins, Corticosteroids, Monokines, Neuroimmunomodulation, Stress(Physiology).
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1987
- Accession Number
- ADA187395
Entities
People
- Eric M. Smith
Organizations
- University of Texas Medical Branch