Psychoneuroimmunology

Mind and brain interaction. the study of the interactions among behavioral, neural and endocrine, and immune processes. The brain communicates with the immune system through autonomic nervous system and neuroendocrine activity. Both pathways generate signals that are perceived by the immune system via receptors on the surface of lymphocytes and other immune cells. Conversely, an activated immune system generates chemical signals (cytokines) that are perceived by the nervous system. Thus, bidirectional pathways connect the brain and the immune system and provide the foundation for behavioral influences on immune functions.