Adrenomedullin and Glucocorticoids interaction at the glial/endothelial interface: two sides of the same regulatory coin?

Abstract

  Adrenomedullin is a vasodilatatory peptide, important during the inflammation process and also able to regulate blood-brain barrier function. Adrenomedullin and its receptors have been shown to be glucocorticoid-dependent in many cell types, including primary T cells and the major cellular components of the blood-brain barrier. Considering that the immunosuppressant, glucocorticoids are also well-known to regulate inflammation and blood-brain barrier properties, in this research highlight we review the evidence for glucocorticoid modulation of adrenomedullin secretion and adrenomedullin receptor expression at the glial/endothelial interface during physiological and inflammatory conditions. This view would offer a platform for consideration of new therapeutic options aiming to restore or maintain the blood brain barrier.