Penicillamine-induced immunosuppression: in vitro studies of inhibition of immunoglobulin synthesis.
An in vitro system of T-dependent polyclonally activated B lymphocytes has been used to identify the cellular basis of immunosuppression induced by penicillamine. Suppression of immunoglobulin synthesis was dose dependent, and required the drug to be present at the initial stages of the culture. Coculture studies identified T helper cells as the primary target. Study of T cell membrane receptors identified a susceptible subpopulation characterized by its inability to form tight sheep red blood cell rosettes, a delay in the generation of T mu receptors and reduced "help" for polyclonally activated B cells. B lymphocytes were not primarily suppressed by penicillamine.
D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000187:drug effects*; D006801:Humans; D007136:Immunoglobulins / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D007165:Immunosuppression Therapy; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D010396:Penicillamine / Q000494:pharmacology*; D011043:Pokeweed Mitogens / Q000494:pharmacology; D012397:Rosette Formation; D013268:Stimulation, Chemical; D006377:T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / Q000187:drug effects*
D007136:Immunoglobulins; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D011043:Pokeweed Mitogens; D010396:Penicillamine