Question

The immune system interacts with all other physiological systems, but has specific connection to the nervous and endocrine system. Please list 2 examples for such an interaction and briefly explain the type of interaction

Answer 1

1) Immune system interacts with endocrine system
Cytokines are the hormone-like small proteins acting as intercellular messengers (cell signaling molecules) by binding to specific receptors of target cells. These non-antibody proteins are secreted by WBCs and some other types of cells. Their major function is the activation and regulation of general immune system of the body. Cytokines are distinct from the other cell-signaling molecules such as growth factors and hormones.
Types of cyokines
Depending upon the source of secretion and effects,cytokines are classified into several types:
1. Interleukins
2. Interferons
3. Tumor necrosis factor 4.Chemokines
5. Defensins
6. Cathelicidins
7. Platelet-activating factor.​​​​​​

Thymus gland secretes hormone thymosin.It is essential for production and maturation of T cells.It is large in childrens,decreases it's size as age increases

2) Immune system interacts with nervous system

Nervous system influence immunity through hormones secreated by pituitary and other glands by innervation of immune organs.

Immune system interfere in the functions of brain.The central nervous system also plays a role in immunity.The central nervous system is protected by blood brain barrier.

Blood-brain- barrier
Blood-brain barrier (BBB) is a neuroprotective structure that prevents the entry of many substances and pathogens into the brain tissues from blood. This observation suggested that there was a hypothetical barrier, which
prevented the diffusion of trypan blue into the brain tissues from the capillaries.It exists in the capillary membrane of all parts of the brain, except in some areas of hypothalamus.

FUNCTIONS of BBB
BBB acts as both a mechanical barrier and transport mechanisms. It prevents potentially harmful chemical substances and permits metabolic and essential materials into the brain tissues. By preventing injurious materials and organisms, BBB provides healthy environment for the nerve cells of the brain.