Abstract
Mainly genetic factors, but also environmental agents, are the ultimate regulators of the function of body organs, tissues, and cells throughout life. Their influence on body functions is believed to be expressed mainly via the homeostatic and integrative systems of the body, e.g., the neuroendocrine, immune, and intercellular-communicating systems. Of these, the neuroendocrine role is believed to be of greatest importance since it controls or influences practically every activity in the body, e.g., body development and growth; sexual development, puberty, reproduction; immune competency; basal metabolic rate, metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, minerals, vitamins and enzymes; kidney, liver, gastrointestinal, and pancreatic functions; hematopoesis; the cardiovascular system; brain functions; etc. The immune system has an essential protective role in the body. Recent evidence indicates that it may also influence the operations of the neuroendocrine system (Fabris and Piantinelli, 1982). The neuroendocrine and immune system both exhibit a general decline in function during later life, but little is yet known about their interactions during this period. Least is known about the role of the intercellular-communicating system and secretion of cellular substances such as monokines, interferons, etc., during aging.
Published Version
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