Title: The biological basis for psychoneuroimmunology.
Abstract: The brain and the immune system are linked by two major physiologic systems: the sympathetic nervous system (SNS) and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system (HPA). The effect of these systems on the immune system is related to HIV disease and HIV-related care. The SNS and the HPA both play roles in normal body function and become particularly active during stressful or emotional circumstances. These experiences are associated with increased activity in the brain's limbic system. Research suggests that SNS activation can reduce cellular immune response. Some aspects of the immune function can be altered by the network of hormones that make up the HPA system. Research is necessary to determine whether or not psychological characteristics associated with differences in the rate of HIV progression might be mediated by the activity of the SNS and HPA.
Publication Year: 1997
Publication Date: 1997-02-01
Language: en
Type: article
Indexed In: ['pubmed']
Access and Citation
AI Researcher Chatbot
Get quick answers to your questions about the article from our AI researcher chatbot