Anti-inflammatory neuropeptide receptors: new therapeutic targets for immune disorders?

Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2007 Sep;28(9):482-91. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2007.07.001. Epub 2007 Aug 3.

Abstract

The loss of immune tolerance results in the breakdown of immune homeostasis and the appearance of exacerbated inflammatory conditions. Some anti-inflammatory neuropeptides have recently emerged as endogenous factors participating in the maintenance of immune tolerance. The effects of these neuropeptides in self-tolerance primarily depend on the activation of cAMP-protein kinase A signaling and the regulation of various transduction pathways involved in the expression of many immune factors. Understanding of the structure-function relationship of anti-inflammatory neuropeptides and their receptors will facilitate the development of novel pharmacological agents for the treatment of immune disorders.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Immune System Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Immune System Diseases / immunology
  • Immune Tolerance
  • Inflammation Mediators / therapeutic use*
  • Neuropeptides / therapeutic use*
  • Receptors, Neuropeptide / immunology*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Inflammation Mediators
  • Neuropeptides
  • Receptors, Neuropeptide