The stress response and the regulation of inflammatory disease
Article Abstract:
A complex system of molecular and biochemical mechanisms maintains communication between the immune and central nervous systems. Cytokines are substances released in response to injury or inflammation to activate the immune system and the proper behavioral response. Peripheral cytokines activate the adrenal and pituitary glands and cause the release of anti-inflammatory substances. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is one of the most powerful substances involved in the regulation of the feedback loop between the immune and the central nervous in response to stress. Disruption of this loop may occur in individuals with inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or behavioral disorders such as depression. Genetic and environmental factors, drugs or infections may interfere with the interaction between the immune and central nervous systems.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1992
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Interactions between the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the female reproductive system: clinical implications
Article Abstract:
Hormones produced by the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and adrenals have a substantial effect on the female reproductive tract. Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which is normally produced by the hypothalamus, is also present in the ovaries, endometrium and placenta. This could explain why pregnant women have excess cortisol, which suppresses the adrenal glands and may explain postpartum depression and autoimmune disorders. CRH also affects gonadotropin-releasing hormone and glucocorticoids suppress the production of luteinizing hormone by the pituitary, and estrogen and progesterone production by the ovaries.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1998
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The pathophysiologic roles of interleukin-6 in human disease
Article Abstract:
Interleukin-6 has many roles in the body and affects the endocrine system as well as the immune system. It is produced by many different cells, including white blood cells, immune system cells, bone cells, epithelial cells and smooth muscle cells. It stimulates the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal system as well as growth hormone. It mediates inflammation and elevated levels are found in many inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. It is also involved in bone remodeling and may be a factor in osteoporosis.
Publication Name: Annals of Internal Medicine
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0003-4819
Year: 1998
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