The immune-hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis and autoimmunity.

Immunoendocrinology is a rapidly expanding field, uncovering numerous bilateral interactions between the immune system and neuroendocrine circuits. Various hormones and neurotransmitters appear to modulate cells of the immune system and likewise cytokines control the function of neuroendocrine system. In the present paper, we discuss some lines of evidence indicating that an immunoendocrine feedback loop, which we term 'immune-hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal system' is an integral part of the regulation of self tolerance. The finding that pathology of this immunoendocrine feedback loop is related to development of autoimmunity may lead to new prophylactic and therapeutic strategies.