Differential inhibition by azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine of specific suppressor T cell generation in mice.
Doses of 100 mg/kg/day and 55 mg/kg/day of azathioprine (AZ) and 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), respectively, significantly suppressed anti sheep red blood cell (SRBC) responses in CBA mice, assayed by the complement-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (CDCC) test and by serum titration. Four injections of similar doses of the agents were given to donors of carrier-specific suppressor T cells, generated by two immunizations with SRBC, and transferred to syngeneic recipients sensitized with the TNP hapten on SRBC carrier. Anti-TNP response of the recipients was assayed by the CDCC, using TNP-coated EL4 target cells. Whereas 6-MP, given after or before the second immunization of the donors with carrier SRBC, caused abrogation of suppressor cell activity, equimolar doses of AZ were less inhibitory to suppressor cell generation.
D000818:Animals; D001379:Azathioprine / Q000494:pharmacology*; D003864:Depression, Chemical; D007942:Leukemia, Experimental / Q000276:immunology; D008297:Male; D015122:Mercaptopurine / Q000494:pharmacology*; D051379:Mice; D012756:Sheep / Q000276:immunology; D013154:Spleen / Q000166:cytology; D050378:T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / Q000187:drug effects*
D015122:Mercaptopurine; D001379:Azathioprine