Modulation of immune responses by the neuropeptide CGRP

Amino Acids. 2013 Jul;45(1):1-7. doi: 10.1007/s00726-011-1161-2. Epub 2011 Nov 24.

Abstract

The peripheral nervous system is connected with lymphoid organs through sensory nerves that mediate pain reflexes and may influence immune responses through the release of neuropeptides such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). Local and systemic levels of CGRP increase rapidly during inflammatory responses. CGRP inhibits effector functions of various immune cells and dampens inflammation by distinct pathways involving the amplification of IL-10 production and/or the induction of the transcriptional repressor inducible cAMP early repressor (ICER). Thus, available evidence suggests that, in neuro-immunological interactions, CGRP mediates a potent peptidergic anti-inflammatory pathway.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptive Immunity / immunology*
  • Animals
  • Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide / metabolism*
  • Cyclic AMP Response Element Modulator / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Interleukin-10 / metabolism
  • Neuroimmunomodulation / immunology
  • Peripheral Nervous System / metabolism*
  • Protein Isoforms
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • CREM protein, human
  • Protein Isoforms
  • Interleukin-10
  • Cyclic AMP Response Element Modulator
  • Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide