Interaction between endocrine and immune systems in fish

Int Rev Cytol. 2002:220:35-92. doi: 10.1016/s0074-7696(02)20003-0.

Abstract

Diseases in fish are serious problems for the development of aquaculture. The outbreak of fish disease is largely dependent on environmental and endogenous factors resulting in opportunistic infection. Recent studies, particularly on stress response, have revealed that bidirectional communication between the endocrine and immune systems via hormones and cytokines exists at the level of teleost fish. Recently information on such messengers and receptors has accumulated in fish research particularly at the molecular level. Furthermore, it has become apparent in fish that cells of the immune system produce or express hormones and their receptors and vice versa to exchange information between the two systems. This review summarizes and updates the knowledge on endocrine-immune interactions in fish with special emphasis on the roles of such mediators or receptors for their interactions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Communication / immunology*
  • Cytokines / immunology
  • Cytokines / metabolism
  • Endocrine System / metabolism*
  • Fishes / immunology*
  • Fishes / metabolism*
  • Hormones / immunology
  • Hormones / metabolism
  • Immune System / metabolism*
  • Receptors, Cell Surface / immunology
  • Receptors, Cell Surface / metabolism
  • Stress, Physiological / immunology*

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Hormones
  • Receptors, Cell Surface