Mycophenolate mofetil: selective T cell inhibition.
Mycphenolate mofetil is a suppressor of T cell proliferation and adhesion. Its primary mode of action is inhibition of inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase, a purine salvage pathway required by T lymphocytes. Although the role of T cells in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been controversial, a preliminary report of mycophenolate mofetil's successful use in RA patients clearly suggests that its efficacious properties need further investigation. Its favorable risk/benefit ratio, a broad clinical experience in kidney transplantation, and its recent extension to other rheumatic diseases suggests that this new antirheumatic agent has significant therapeutic potential for suppression of synovial inflammation.
McMurray
Robert W
RW
Rheumatology Section, Medical Service, G.V (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi 39216, USA. robert.mcmurray@med.va.gov
Harisdangkul
Valee
V
D002448:Cell Adhesion; D002455:Cell Division; D006084:Graft Rejection / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009173:Mycophenolic Acid / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000187:drug effects*
D007166:Immunosuppressive Agents; D009173:Mycophenolic Acid