Peptide immunomodulators versus infection; an analysis.
A disease gets manifested only when the host immune system is not strong enough to fight off the infective agents. A number of small peptides both from natural and synthetic origin are found to be capable of modulating the immune response. While immune adjuvants are known to strengthen the immune response and help the host not to give way to the pathogens thereby preventing their establishment, the immunosuppressors are found useful in autoimmune conditions as well as in facilitating the organ transplants. Recent understanding of immune network, however, reveals its cross connectivity with the endocrine and central nervous systems as well. Thus, the inhibition and control of disease by planned restoration of homeostatis in these systems through immunomodulation is also possible.
Dutta
Ranjna C
RC
Discovery Laboratory, Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Habsiguda, Hyderabad 500 007, India. r_dutta@northwestern.edu
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic / Q000494:pharmacology* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D007114:Immunization / Q000379:methods*; D016867:Immunocompromised Host / Q000187:drug effects; D007165:Immunosuppression Therapy / Q000379:methods; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use; D007239:Infections / Q000188:drug therapy*; D010455:Peptides / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000276:Adjuvants, Immunologic; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D010455:Peptides