[The cholinergic system of lymphocytes]

Abstract

The role of acetylcholine and the cholinergic system in non-neuronal cells (in particular, in lymphocytes) in humans is considered. Lymphocytes express most of the cholinergic components found in the nervous system, which makes possible acetylcholine-dependent stimulation of lymphocytes in the spleen and lymph nodes. The sympathetic innervation and paracrine mediators control several immune cell functions, the blood perfusion, lymphoid cells and antigen uptake by the lymphoid organs. Cholinergic compounds can influence the immune system through the CNS (via hypothalamic - pituitary - adrenal axis), the autonomoic nervous system, and/or an independent non-neuronal cholinergic system in lymphocytes. The dysfunction of the non-neuronal cholinergic system plays a certain role in the pathogenesis of many diseases. Experiments revealed the possibility to modulate some effects of non-neuronal acetylcholine in the prevention of stress-induced ulcers and anaphylactic shock. This could provide a basis for the development of new therapeutic strategies to target the non-neuronal cholinergic system.