TACROLIMUS (FK506) DOWN-REGULATES FREE RADICAL TISSUE LEVELS, SERUM CYTOKINES, AND NEUTROPHIL INFILTRATION AFTER SEVERE LIVER ISCHEMIA

Abstract

These data indicate a new and different protective mechanism for FK506 in regard to its ability to down-regulate free radical levels in livers subjected to severe ischemia and reperfusion. Tacrolimus, also confirmed to be a potent suppressor of the cytokine response, specifically interleukin 1 and tumor necrosis, decreased neutrophil tissue migration as well.