Adrenergic modulation of immune cells: an update

Amino Acids. 2013 Jul;45(1):55-71. doi: 10.1007/s00726-011-1186-6. Epub 2011 Dec 8.

Abstract

Sympathoadrenergic pathways are crucial to the communication between the nervous system and the immune system. The present review addresses emerging issues in the adrenergic modulation of immune cells, including: the specific pattern of adrenoceptor expression on immune cells and their role and changes upon cell differentiation and activation; the production and utilization of noradrenaline and adrenaline by immune cells themselves; the dysregulation of adrenergic immune mechanisms in disease and their potential as novel therapeutic targets. A wide array of sympathoadrenergic therapeutics is currently used for non-immune indications, and could represent an attractive source of non-conventional immunomodulating agents.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenergic Neurons / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • Cell Differentiation / immunology
  • Epinephrine / biosynthesis
  • Epinephrine / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Nervous System / immunology*
  • Norepinephrine / biosynthesis
  • Norepinephrine / metabolism
  • Receptors, Adrenergic / metabolism*

Substances

  • Receptors, Adrenergic
  • Norepinephrine
  • Epinephrine