Neuropeptides with immunoregulatory functions: current status of investigations

Neuropeptides (NP) from the central nervous system and the peripheral nervous system play a modulating role in the immune system. In principle, all immunological functions are influenced by NP either in terms of nonspecific immunity or cellular immunity. In the present review, some aspects of this interaction are summarized, namely the existence of receptors for NP on immune cells and the production of NP by leukocytes. Finally, the pathogenetic role of NP in diseases and the future perspectives of neuroimmunology are outlined.