S100+ cells: a new neuro-immune cross-talkers in lymph organs

Sci Rep. 2013:3:1114. doi: 10.1038/srep01114. Epub 2013 Jan 23.

Abstract

Up to now, the 'hardwired' neural pathway of the neuro-immune regulation is not fully understood. Here we reported a new neural pathway which links sympathetic nerves with immune cells of the lymphoid tissues. Our results demonstrated that nerve fibers derived from superior cervical ganglion directly targeted only S100(+) cells in the cervical lymph nodes. Moreover, we found co-expression of neurotransmitters such as norepinephrine, vasoactive intestinal polypeptide and neuropeptide Y in the postganglionic sympathetic nerve endings that innervate S100(+) cells. Our findings suggested that S100(+) cells serve as a neuro-immune cross-talker in lymph organs that may play a significant role in transmitting signals of nervous cells to targeted immune cells. The new findings provide better understanding of the cross-talk mechanism between the nervous system and the immune system.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Immune System / immunology*
  • Immune System / innervation*
  • Immune System / metabolism
  • Lymph Nodes / immunology
  • Lymph Nodes / innervation*
  • Lymph Nodes / metabolism
  • Lymphatic System / immunology*
  • Lymphatic System / innervation*
  • Lymphatic System / metabolism
  • Male
  • Nerve Endings / immunology
  • Nerve Endings / metabolism
  • Nerve Fibers / immunology*
  • Nerve Fibers / metabolism
  • Neurotransmitter Agents / immunology
  • Neurotransmitter Agents / metabolism
  • Rats
  • Rats, Sprague-Dawley
  • Sympathetic Nervous System / immunology
  • Sympathetic Nervous System / metabolism

Substances

  • Neurotransmitter Agents