Modulation of the inflammatory reaction and neutrophil defense of the bovine lactating mammary gland by growth hormorme

This review is focused on the possible interactions of prolactin and somato trope hormone in the modulation of inflammation of the mammary gland. Sever al different models are examined: Escherichia coli, Streptococcus uberis, a nd endotoxin mastitis. Subsequently, the release of growth hormone and insu lin-like growth factor during fever and mastitis, the immunophysiological e ffects of GH on E. coli mastitis, S. uberis and endotoxin mastitis, the gal actopoietic action of rBST on healthy and mastitis cows as well as the immu nologic effects of GH on leukocytes in healthy and diseased cows are discus sed. It can be concluded that the underlying regulation of the neuro-endocr ine network is fundamental in the normal function of the immune system. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.