The lymphocytic cholinergic system and its modulation by organophosphorus pesticides.

Abstract

Clinical and basic mechanism observations reveal interactions between neural and immune systems. These two systems create a complex network for recognizing danger to the host and its protection from outside pathogenic elements as well as from inside overreactions of inflammatory character. Here, we review the interactions of these two systems in relation to the effects of pesticides that clearly involve elements of cholinergic lymphocytic system. We discuss cellular and soluble elements of the immune system, which may be affected by pesticide exposure. We suggest that in-depth studies of the influence of pesticides on lymphocytes may contribute to the development of sensitive methods of measuring early adverse effects appearing in response to pesticide exposure.