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Modulation of immune responses by the neuropeptide CGRP

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Abstract

The peripheral nervous system is connected with lymphoid organs through sensory nerves that mediate pain reflexes and may influence immune responses through the release of neuropeptides such as calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP). Local and systemic levels of CGRP increase rapidly during inflammatory responses. CGRP inhibits effector functions of various immune cells and dampens inflammation by distinct pathways involving the amplification of IL-10 production and/or the induction of the transcriptional repressor inducible cAMP early repressor (ICER). Thus, available evidence suggests that, in neuro-immunological interactions, CGRP mediates a potent peptidergic anti-inflammatory pathway.

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Work of the author is supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft through SFB 576.

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  1. Department of Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaninger Str. 22, 81675, München, Germany

    Bernhard Holzmann

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Holzmann, B. Modulation of immune responses by the neuropeptide CGRP. Amino Acids 45, 1–7 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00726-011-1161-2

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