The Somatogenic Hormones and Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1: Stimulators of Lymphopoiesis and Immune Function

Abstract

I. Introduction II. Local GH Axis in Lymphoid Tissue A. Background: extrapituitary production? B. GH expression C. GH regulation D. GHRs E. GHR signaling III. GH Administration A. Effects on the thymus B. Pattern of GH exposure C. GH and immune function in humans IV. PRL A. PRL expression in lymphoid tissues B. PRL receptors C. Administration of PRL, anti-PRL antibodies, or bromocriptine V. Insulin-like Growth Factors A. Background B. IGF peptides C. Regulation of lymphocyte IGF-I D. IGF receptors on lymphocytes E. IGFBPs VI. Actions of IGF-I A. Bone marrow B. Effects on lymphoid organ size C. Effect of in vivo treatment on lymphocyte number and in vitro function D. Functional effects of IGF-I in vivo: antibody responses E. Immune reconstitution F. Mechanism of action: apoptosis VII. IGF-I in Different Physiological States A. IGF-I in pregnancy B. IGF-I in diabetes C. IGF-I in gastrointestinal disorders D. IGF-I action in polycythemia vera VIII. GH/IGF-I as Antistress Hormones IX. Therapeutic Potential X. Conclusions\.