The intricate interface between immune system and metabolism.
Increasing experimental evidence indicates that several factors that influence metabolism also play a role in the regulation of immune responses. Dissection of the interface connecting the metabolic and immune systems has recently gained wide interest. Particular focus has been on certain cytokines [interleukin-1 (IL-1), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma)], hormones (leptin and insulin), neuropeptides (corticotropin-releasing hormone and alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone), immune-related proteins (zinc-alpha2-glycoprotein and attractin and/or mahogany), transcription factors (peroxisome-proliferator-activated receptors) and glucose metabolism. A better knowledge of the intricate network of interactions among energy regulation, immune surveillance and vital organ functions could in the near future lead to valuable strategies for therapeutic intervention in several immune-mediated diseases.
Matarese
Giuseppe
G
Institute of Endocrinology/Oncology Research, c/o Department of Biology and Molecular-Cellular Pathology, Federico II University of Naples, Via S. Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy. gmatarese@napoli.com
La Cava
Antonio
A
D000818:Animals; D016207:Cytokines / Q000502:physiology; D004734:Energy Metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D005947:Glucose / Q000378:metabolism; D006728:Hormones / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007107:Immune System / Q000502:physiology*; D007108:Immune Tolerance; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D008954:Models, Biological; D009479:Neuropeptides / Q000502:physiology; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology; D014157:Transcription Factors / Q000502:physiology
D016207:Cytokines; D006728:Hormones; D009479:Neuropeptides; D014157:Transcription Factors; D005947:Glucose