Inhibition of antibody production by 2-chloroadenosine

The ability of 2-chloroadenosine (2Cl Ado) to modulate lymphocyte function was examined in culture and in vivo. Mitogenic stimulation of B cell DNA synthesis was antagonized by 2Cl Ado while adenosine produced both stimulations and inhibitions. In culture, 2Cl Ado was found to suppress antibody production to sheep erythrocytes (SRBC) regardless of whether the nucleoside was added at the initiation of culture or 48 hours after sensitization. Inhibiting adenosine deaminase (ADA) did not affect the response to 2Cl Ado, and 1-homocysteine thiolactone was found to potentiate the inhibition suggesting formation of S-adenosylhomocysteine. Similar responses were found with adenosine provided ADA was inhibited. When 2Cl Ado was administered to mice 3-4 days after SRBC, a concentration-dependent decrease in antibody producing cells was observed. These data suggest that nucleosides can inhibit antibody production by inhibiting transmethylation reactions. 2Cl Ado appears to be an effective immunosuppressant without concomitant cytotoxicity both in culture and in vivo.