Receptor-mediated local fine-tuning by noradrenergic innervation of neuroendocrine and immune systems

Abstract

Immune responses can be modulated by noradrenergic input at (1) hypothalamic (CRF and ACTH release), (2) immune cell (cytokine production), and (3) adrenal cortex (glucocorticoid production) level. Elucitating the basic mechanisms responsible for immunological responses and diseases may be helpful in developing therapeutic approaches for many disorders, such as autoimmune diseases.