Induction of beta-endorphin secretion by lymphocytes after subcutaneous administration of corticotropin-releasing factor.
Cells of the immune system can be stimulated to secrete POMC-derived peptides such as beta-endorphin and ACTH. Recently, it has been reported that CRF induces beta-endorphin secretion by human peripheral blood mononuclear cells in vitro (1). It has been shown that interleukin-1 (IL-1) mediates the CRF-induced secretion of beta-endorphin by lymphocytes in vitro. In the present report it is demonstrated that sc administration of CRF to rats can also induced beta-endorphin secretion by lymphocytes from spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes. Moreover, this CRF-induced secretion of beta-endorphin coincides with enhanced secretion of IL-1 by macrophages. Previously, we reported that IL-1 can activate CRF neurons in the hypothalamus of the brain. Our data indicate the existence of an intricate relationship between CRF and IL-1, peptides that can be viewed as playing a pivotal role in the interaction between the central nervous system and the immune system.
Kavelaars
A
A
Department of Immunology, University Hospital for Children and Youth, Het Wilhelmina Kinderziekenhuis, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Berkenbosch
F
F
Croiset
G
G
Ballieux
R E
RE
Heijnen
C J
CJ
D000818:Animals; D003345:Corticosterone / Q000097:blood; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000097:blood / Q000494:pharmacology*; D007375:Interleukin-1 / Q000378:metabolism / Q000494:pharmacology; D008198:Lymph Nodes / Q000166:cytology; D008214:Lymphocytes / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism*; D008297:Male; D008643:Mesentery; D051381:Rats; D011919:Rats, Inbred Strains; D013154:Spleen / Q000166:cytology; D001615:beta-Endorphin / Q000378:metabolism*
D007375:Interleukin-1; D001615:beta-Endorphin; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone; D003345:Corticosterone