Influence of androgens on the innate immune system.

Abstract

Sexual dimorphism is observed in the occurrence, course, and severity of human disease. The difference in immune response between males and females can in part be attributed to sexual genotype. However, immunological differences can also be explained by endocrine-immune interactions. Specifically, androgens possess the ability of directly modulating the development and function of immune cells. Although androgens generally contribute to immunosuppressive effects, this is not necessarily always the case. The aim of the review is to uncover the role of androgens in shaping the innate immune response. Authors included papers in this review which discussed the impact of androgens on specific innate immune cells. Androgens modulate the innate immune response through various mechanisms. However, there is conflicting evidence in the literature regarding the interplay betwen androgens and the innate immune system. Conflicting evidence presented in this review could in part be explained by the limitations present in interpreting results. This review is of great importance for our understanding of occurence and mechanism of human inflammatory disease.