T cell functions are impaired by inhaled isobutyl nitrite through a T-independent mechanism.
Isobutyl nitrite is representative of a group of inhalants abused by male homosexuals and adolescents. Inhalation exposure of mice to isobutyl nitrite at 900 ppm for 45 min per day for 14 days caused serious deficits in T cell-mediated immune responses. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activity was reduced by 36% following the exposure. T cell proliferative responses to mitogenic and allogeneic stimulation were reduced by 37% and 51%, respectively. The exposure did not directly alter the ability of cells to synthesize or respond to IL-2. Accessory cell function in facilitating T cell activation was inhibited by about 50% following exposure to the inhalant.
Soderberg
L S
LS
Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock 72205.
D000280:Administration, Inhalation; D000818:Animals; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D005260:Female; D007111:Immunity, Cellular / Q000187:drug effects; D007376:Interleukin-2 / Q000096:biosynthesis; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation / Q000187:drug effects; D051379:Mice; D008810:Mice, Inbred C57BL; D009573:Nitrites / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000633:toxicity*; D013154:Spleen / Q000166:cytology; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000276:immunology; D013602:T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic / Q000187:drug effects / Q000276:immunology; D014665:Vasodilator Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000633:toxicity*
D007376:Interleukin-2; D009573:Nitrites; D014665:Vasodilator Agents; C018086:isobutyl nitrite