Dendritic cells (DCs) are the primary antigen presenting cells that are responsible for initiating and directing T and B lymphocyte-mediated immune responses against pathogens or tumors. DCs are a heterogeneous population with subpopulations potentially exhibiting different functions. Some DCs, in an immature state, can serve as sentinels in tissues and organs where their main function is to capture antigen at the site of infection. During the course of an infection, DCs recognize pathogen-associated molecules and are signaled to undergo maturation. This maturation process involves their migration to lymph nodes, increased antigen presentation on MHC class I and class II, and upregulation of co-stimulatory molecules. These processes are required for effective T cell-mediated immunity. However, it has long been recognized that many aspects of immune function are modulated by neurological and/or endocrine interactions. In particular, exposure to stress can lead to increased susceptibility to many pathogens, including viruses. Our focus is the influence of neuro-endocrine interactions upon DCs that can affect their maturation state and function at the cellular and molecular levels. In particular, we examine the acquisition of antigen (via uptake or direct viral infection), antigen processing, and antigen presentation in the context of the initiation of antiviral immunity.