The neuroendocrine system, an opportunity for immunotoxicologists.

The interrelationship between the neuroendocrine and immune systems was first recognized over 50 years ago. Subsequent investigations have shown that gene products produced by the neuroendocrine system affect the activities of immunologically competent cells. More recent data show that cells of the two systems possess receptors that are identical. Because of these strong interrelationships, it is postulated that compounds that affect the neuroendocrine system will also affect the immune system. It follows that the readily accessible cells of the immune system can be used as surrogates for the less accessible cells of the neuroendocrine system. Moreover, the assays typically used by immunotoxicologists could provide quantitative information regarding dose response, persistence of effects, and surveillance of the extent of exposure for compounds known to be neurotoxicants. Thus, much useful information could be acquired by applying the technique of immunotoxicology to the study of neurotoxicants.