Abstract
α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) is an endogenous neuroimmunomodulatory peptide that inhibits fever and all major forms of experimental inflammation. In humans, concentrations of α-MSH are increased at sites of inflammation, and in plasma in inflammatory disorders and after injection of endotoxin. The effects of this 'anti-cytokine' peptide are mediated through α-MSH receptors and regulatory circuits in macrophages and neutrophils, and through descending neural anti-inflammatory pathways that originate from α-MSH receptors on neurons within the brain.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 140-145 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Immunology Today |
Volume | 18 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Mar 1997 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Immunology