The effects of interaction between morphine and interleukin-1 on the immune response.

The findings presented here clearly indicate an association between opioid- and cytokine-dependent systems. Exposure to exogenous opioids can produce profound effects on IL-1-mediated immune responses. Chronic exposure to morphine appears to disrupt the brain-immune axis by desensitizing the IL-1 activation of the HPA axis, and consequently potentiate the LEA response to IL-1. On the other hand, endogeneous IL-1, secreted in response to disease or stress, may alter the endogenous opioid pathway by inducing the expression of opioid receptors in endothelial cells. Clinically, the potential impact on the body's defense mechanisms resulting from the interaction between opioids, such as morphine, and cytokines, such as IL-1, can be substantial. Further investigation of this interaction is essential to understanding the extent of damage in human body caused by drugs of abuse, such as morphine.