The immuno-neuroendocrine interface

The CNS and the various endocrine organs are linked in a dynamic manner through networks of reciprocal interactions that allow for both long-term adaptation and short-term shifts in environmental conditions. These regulatory systems embrace the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland, and any of several target glands, including the adrenal gland and the thyroid. Because the anterior pituitary gland secretes at least six key hormones — adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), growth hormone (GH), prolactin (PRL), thyrotropin (TSH), and the gonadotropins follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone — such diverse parameters as cell integrity, stress responses, growth, development, reproduction, and energy homeostasis are all directly or indirectly under central control (1). In addition, largely because of the dominant role of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, inflammation and immunity are also subject to neuroendocrine effects. The articles in this Perspective series explore some of the developmental, physiological, and molecular interactions occurring at the immuno-neuroendocrine interface.