ABSTRACT
The neuroendocrine-immune network in the intestine proves to be a fruitful and exciting area for continued research. This chapter suggests that cholecystokinin (CCK) impinges on a specific receptor at the basolateral membrane of the enterocyte. The intravenous injection of CCK results in the human in a rise of specific antibody activity of immunoglobulins A, M, and E. The chapter discusses some actions of substance P (SP). As the effects to be described involve the release of immunoglobulins into the lumen of the intestine, some introductory remarks on immunoglobulin transport from the lamina propria to the enterocyte, as well as transcytosis across the enterocyte are indicated. As cholinergic impulses mediate increased loss of chloride and diminish the absorption of sodium, one is tempted to conclude that immunoglobulins and ion transport may be subject to the same impulses in the intestine. The chapter concludes that CCK released by the ingestion of food is responsible for the rise in specific antibodies.
