Investigations of the Biologic Activity and Structure Function Relationships of Synthetic Polymers Which Act as Hormones, Behavior Modifiers and Thymic Immunomodulators
Abstract
This project attempts to probe interrelationships between the central nervous system, immune and endocrine systems. The key departure was the discovery that certain synthetic copolymers stimulate hyperplasia of cortical lymphocytes in the thymus and increased motor behavior. These copolymers, polyphores, are monovalent cation-selective ionophores. During the past year, we developed evidence that T150R1 represents a new class of immunoendocrine modulators. It appears to induce corticosteroids by both a pituitary and an extra-pituitary mechanisms. It may bypass the pituitary either by acting directly on the adrenals, or by acting indirectly on immune cells, such as lymphocytes or macrophages, to induce ACTH or interferon, that can stimulate the adrenals. Its mechanism of action may be by altering cation flux in cells within the hypothalamic pituitary-adrenal axis, as well as cells of the immune system. Many studies attempting to relate behavioral and immunologic changes induced by the copolymers were conducted.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 15, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA202105
Entities
People
- Darryl B. Neill
- Irene J. Check
- Robert L. Hunter
Organizations
- Emory University