Complexity of the bi-directional neuroimmune junction in the spleen

The spleen is a crucial secondary lymphoid organ for circulating infectious agents that is densely innervated by sympathetic nerve fibres. Sympathetic nerve endings contact immune cells within the spleen, particularly in areas of T cells and macrophages (building the neuroimmune junction). Neurotransmitters are released into the vicinity of nerve terminals and bind to specific postsynaptic receptors on the surface of these cells. Local bi-directionality exists through cytokines and neurotransmitters from immune cells that modulate the release of sympathetic neurotransmitters from nerve terminals. This complex 'dialog' depends on microenvironmental factors such as infectious agents, and this 'conversation' is needed to balance the function of both the sympathetic nerve terminal and the immune system. Activation of the sympathetic nervous system and also the resting sympathetic nervous tone are important for controlling innate and adaptive immune responses.