Suggested mode of action of D-penicillamine as an immunosuppressive agent in rheumatoid arthritis.

Abstract

The mechanism by which D-Penicillamine is effective in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis has been investigated. The results indicate that D-Penicillamine in synergism with copper or ceruloplasmin in vitro inhibits the proliferation of T-lymphocytes and the activity of helper T-cells in supporting the generation of antibody-forming cells. This effect is mediated by the production of H2O2. The significance of these findings for in vivo processes is discussed.

• Authors: P E Lipsky
• Journal: Zeitschrift fur Rheumatologie (Z Rheumatol) Vol. 47 Suppl 1 Pg. 6-8 ( 1988) ISSN: 0340-1855 [Print] Germany
• PMID: 2975107 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Copper
• Hydrogen Peroxide
• Ceruloplasmin
• Penicillamine
• Copper Sulfate

Topics

• Arthritis, Rheumatoid (immunology)
• Ceruloplasmin (pharmacology)
• Copper (pharmacology)
• Copper Sulfate
• DNA Replication (drug effects)
• Humans
• Hydrogen Peroxide (biosynthesis)
• Killer Cells, Natural (drug effects)
• Lymphocyte Activation (drug effects)
• Penicillamine (pharmacology)
• Synovial Membrane (drug effects)
• T-Lymphocytes (drug effects)
• T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer (drug effects)