Mignini Fiorenzo, Sabbatini Maurizio, Mattioli Laura, Cosenza Monica, Artico Marco, Cavallotti Carlo
Human Anatomy, School of Drug and Health Products Science, University of Camerino, Ι-62032 Camerino, Italy.
Human Anatomy, Department of Health Sciences, University of Eastern Piedmont ̔Amedeo Avogadro̓, I-28100 Novara, Italy.
Int J Mol Med. 2014 Jun;33(6):1392-400. doi: 10.3892/ijmm.2014.1709. Epub 2014 Mar 20.
The thymus is the primary site for T-cell lympho-poiesis. Its function includes the maturation and selection of antigen specific T cells and selective release of these cells to the periphery. These highly complex processes require precise parenchymal organization and compartmentation where a plethora of signalling pathways occur, performing strict control on the maturation and selection processes of T lymphocytes. In this review, the main morphological characteristics of the thymus microenvironment, with particular emphasis on nerve fibers and neuropeptides were assessed, as both are responsible for neuro-immune‑modulation functions. Among several neurotransmitters that affect thymus function, we highlight the dopaminergic system as only recently has its importance on thymus function and lymphocyte physiology come to light.
