Immunosuppressive Therapy

Abstract

SINCE the demonstrations that 6-mercaptopurine inhibits antibody synthesis1 and allograft rejection2 in laboratory animals, this inhibitor of purine metabolism and its analogue, azathioprine, have been used for the treatment of immunologic diseases and the prevention of organ graft rejection in man with increasing frequency.3 , 4 More recently, a folic acid antagonist, amethopterin, has also been advocated for the treatment of immunologic diseases.5 Despite many investigations, there is still considerable uncertainty regarding the therapeutic indications, side effects and mechanisms of action of these agents. In the present study, the answers to the following questions were sought: What is the extent of immunosuppression . . .