Inhibition of murine intestinal inflammation by anti-substance P antibody

Reg Immunol. 1993 Mar-Apr;5(2):120-6.

Abstract

Several neuropeptides have recently been shown to affect various aspects of the inflammatory process. Among these, the neuropeptide substance P possesses a host of immune modifying actions, which include the enhancement of lymphocyte activity, macrophage function, and neutrophil chemotaxis. The role of substance P during inflamed states has, as yet, not been fully described. Here, in T. spiralis-infected mice, we parallel increased levels of substance P both locally, (the gut) and peripherally (serum) with decreased lymphocyte responsiveness. Upon the introduction of in vivo antisubstance P antibody during the infection, levels of substance P, gastrointestinal inflammation, and lymphocyte proliferation are significantly restored to baseline (noninfected) levels. These findings suggest that the neuropeptide substance P plays an important role in promoting inflammation. It also offers the basis for future pharmacological interventions.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antibodies / administration & dosage
  • Antibodies / immunology*
  • Enteritis / immunology*
  • Enteritis / metabolism
  • Enteritis / prevention & control
  • Female
  • Immunotherapy
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred BALB C
  • Peyer's Patches / immunology
  • Substance P / analysis
  • Substance P / immunology*
  • Trichinella spiralis / immunology
  • Trichinellosis / immunology
  • Trichinellosis / prevention & control

Substances

  • Antibodies
  • Substance P