Influence of Neuroendocrine Mediators on Phagocyte Function

Abstract

In the present study we have examined the individual and combinative effects of epinephrine and met-enkephalin on macrophage morphology, spreading, adherence and microfilaments. Our data: (1) provide evidence indicating that catecholamines down-regulate macrophage activities in the absence or presence of opioids and (2) suggest that elevated cAMP levels play an important role in this activity.In recent years it has become apparent that neuroendocrine mediators may play important roles in regulating afferent and efferent immunologic functions (1-5). The functional attributes of monocytes, macrophages, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, NK cells, T- and B-lymphocytes are modulated by neuroendocrine mediators. The interactive chemical communication between cells of the immunologic and neuroendocrine systems is mediated at least in part by cell surface ligand-receptor interactions. In addition to their many receptors for immunologic ligands, monocytes and macrophages have been reported to possess opiate, Beta-adrenergic, substance P, neurotensin, ATP, 4-carboxyglutamic acid, muscarinic and nicotinic cholinergic receptors. These neuroendocrine receptors, in concert with other immunologic or non-immunologic receptors, contribute to the regulation of macrophage function in vivo.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jul 01, 1988
Accession Number
ADA197629

Entities

People

  • Howard R. Petty

Organizations

  • Wayne State University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Anatomy
  • B Lymphocytes
  • Biological Sciences
  • Cardiovascular System
  • Cells
  • Demography
  • Health Services
  • Leukocytes
  • Lymphocytes
  • Materials
  • Microscopy
  • Military Research
  • Monocytes
  • Neurosecretory Systems
  • Phagocytes
  • Physiological Effects
  • Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes

Fields of Study

  • Biology
  • Medicine

Readers

  • Cardiovascular Physiology
  • Immunology
  • Neuroscience