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Abstract #10288 Published in IGR 6-1
A review of the influence of aqueous humor on immunity
Taylor AOcular Immunology and Inflammation 2003; 11: 231-241
Regulation of immunity within the immune-privileged ocular microenvironment is a dynamic interaction of anatomical features, factors, and cells that work toward suppressing the induction inflammation. Immunosuppressive neuropeptides found in aqueous humor are central to this immunoregulation. These neuropeptides are alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, vasoactive intestinal peptide, calcitonin gene-related peptide, and somatostatin. Along with transforming growth factor-β2, the neuropeptides target specific cells and pathways in innate and adaptive immunity. These aqueous humor factors prevent pathogen-induced inflammation and activation of Th1 cells, while promoting induction of regulatory T cells. Therefore, the ocular microenvironment, through the constitutive production of immunosuppressive factors found in aqueous humor, maintains immune privilege by manipulating regional innate and adaptive immunity away from inflammatory responses.
Dr. A. Taylor, The Schepens Eye Research Institute and the Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
Classification:
2.6.3 Compostion (Part of: 2 Anatomical structures in glaucoma > 2.6 Aqueous humor dynamics)
