[Immune system and hypophysis].
The immune system does not function in isolation from either nervous or endocrine system. Recent advances in biology have made it clear that there are many connections between immune system and hypothalamo-pituitary axis. Among them, relationship of cytokines to hypothalamus is of great interest. We reviewed functions of the cytokines such as interleukin, interferon and tumour necrosis factor. For example, IL-1 releases ACTH from the hypophysis being mediated by corticotropin releasing hormone in the hypothalamus. ACTH shows inhibitory effect on the immune system. Interferons, as well as interleukins bring fever and anorexia via opioid receptors in the hypothalamus. There are some evidences which show effect of IL-1 on the posterior hypophysis which secretes vasopressin and oxytocin. There are, however, many unknown mechanisms in this field. The resolution of the specific interactions between the immune system and the hypothalamo-pituitary axis is subject to further investigations.
Kachi
T
T
Department of Neurology, Chubu National Hospital.
Igata
A
A
D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000502:physiology; D016207:Cytokines / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007107:Immune System / Q000502:physiology*; D010902:Pituitary Gland / Q000378:metabolism*
D016207:Cytokines; D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone; D003346:Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone