Immunological profile of DL111-IT, a new immunosuppressant agent

The immunosuppressive properties of the non-hormonal contragestional agent 3-(2-ethylphenyl)-5-(3-methoxyphenyl)-1H-1,2,4-triazole (DL111-IT) were evaluated on different immunological functions. The compound displayed significant immunosuppressive activity on both humoral and cellular immunity when administered during the inductive phase of the immune response. In experimental models autoimmunity and skin transplantation, DL111-IT was able to reduce the production of auto-antibodies and prolong skin graft survival. The compound, even at doses much higher than those effective inhibiting immune responses, did not influence the survival time of some haematological tumors in mice. This suggest that DL111-IT does not act by a general cytotoxic mechanism.