Neuroimmunomodulation

Neuroimmunomodulation is the bidirectional signaling between the central nervous system (CNS) (the brain and spinal cord) and the cells and organs of the immune system. The CNS can send neuroendocrine signals that act on specific subsets of cells of the immune system and can also send direct neural connections into lymphoid organs, where released neurotransmitters act on specific cell subsets of the immune system. These subsets of immunological cells possess a variety of receptors for neurohormones and neurotransmitters that permit signal transduction, influencing the activities and synthetic capacities of those cells. This direct neural-immune signaling modulates individual cellular functions as well as collective immune responses. This neural-immune circuitry permits behavioral influences, including those resulting from physical and psychological stressors, to modulate the activities of the immune system. The immune system, in turn, through the release of cytokines from specific subsets of cells, can signal neurons in the CNS and peripheral nervous system directly and indirectly. © 2007