Molecular transduction mechanisms of cytokine/hormones interactions: role of gp130 cytokines.

GEREZ J, BONFIGLIO J, SOSA S, GIACOMINI D, ACUÑA M, CARBIA NAGASHIMA A, PERONE M, SILBERSTEIN S, RENNER U, STALLA GK, ARZT E.

Exp Physiol

Año: 2007 vol. 92 p. 801 - 806

Highly sophisticated mechanisms confer on the immune system the capacity to respond witha certain degree of autonomy. However, the final outcome of an immune response depends onthe interaction of the immune system with other systems. The immune and neuroendocrinesystems have an intimate cross-communication that makes possible a satisfactory response toenvironmental changes. Part of this interaction occurs through cytokines and steroid hormones.The last step of this cross-talk is the molecular level. As a model of interaction, this reviewfocuses on the gp130 cytokine family. These cytokines, as well as their receptors, are expressedin pituitary cells. They regulate hormone production as well as growth of pituitary cells. Duringacute or chronic inflammation or infection, systemic, hypothalamic and hypophyseal gp130cytokines act on anterior pituitary cells, integrating the neuroendocrine–immune response.Disruptions of these pathways may lead not only to abnormal growth of pituitary cells but alsoto immune disorders, for which, based on recent findings, targeting these cytokines might be anovel therapeutic approach.