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The effects of metiamide on cell-mediated immune reactions in the guinea-pig
Abstract:
1 The effects of the H2-receptor antagonist, metiamide, on two types of cell-mediated immune response in vivo was investigated in the guinea-pig, in a test of the hypothesis that H2-receptor antagonists would result in 'runaway' unregulated hypersensitivity reactions. 2 Metiamide in doses of 5 mg-125 mg/kg given by 6-hourly injection during sensitization and challenge did not modify the delayed hypersensitivity reaction to tuberculin. 3 Metiamide in doses of 25-125 mg/kg given by injection, 6-hourly throughout sensitization to dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB) and subsequent challenge six days later, did not modify the contact sensitivity reaction to DNFB. 4 It is concluded that metiamide, given during these cell-mediated immune reactions in the guinea-pig, does not enhance cell-mediated hypersensitivity responses.
Insights
The H2-receptor antagonist metiamide did not alter cell-mediated immune responses in guinea-pigs. This study found no evidence that metiamide enhances hypersensitivity reactions to tuberculin or dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB).
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- H2-receptor antagonists are investigated for their potential impact on immune responses.
- A hypothesis suggested H2-receptor antagonists might cause unregulated hypersensitivity reactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of metiamide, an H2-receptor antagonist, on cell-mediated immune responses in vivo.
- To test the hypothesis that H2-receptor antagonists lead to 'runaway' hypersensitivity reactions.
Main Methods:
- Guinea-pigs were used to study delayed hypersensitivity to tuberculin and contact sensitivity to dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB).
- Metiamide was administered via injection during sensitization and challenge phases.
- Dose ranges for metiamide were 5-125 mg/kg for tuberculin and 25-125 mg/kg for DNFB.
Main Results:
- Metiamide did not modify the delayed hypersensitivity reaction to tuberculin.
- Metiamide did not alter the contact sensitivity reaction to dinitrofluorobenzene (DNFB).
Conclusions:
- Metiamide administration during cell-mediated immune responses in guinea-pigs does not enhance hypersensitivity.
- The study did not support the hypothesis that H2-receptor antagonists cause unregulated hypersensitivity reactions.