Brain-immune system interactions and neurohormonal changes which are induced by psychophysiological factors are growing areas of scientific interest. Central (CNS) and autonomic nervous-endocrine-immune system pathways are connected with a number of behavioral and physiological factors which may be linked to disease susceptibility and progression. Methods: In this paper, influence of orphanin FQ/nociceptin receptor (OFQ/N) on the hypothalamicpituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and their influence on

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... e immunological system was reviewed. Conclusions: The neuroendocrine system, in particular the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, is closely connected with the cytokines. HPA axis activation by cytokines, via the release of glucocorticoids has, in turn, been found to play a critical role in restraining and shaping immune responses. Investigation of the OFQ/N system and G-proteins suggests a role for this receptor as a downregulator of cytokine, chemokine and chemokine receptor expression.