Modulation of human immune responsiveness in vitro by auranofin

The effect of auranofin (AF) on in vitro correlates of human immune responsiveness was examined. AF inhibited mitogen induced human lymphocyte proliferation and the generation of immunoglobulin secreting cells in a concentration dependent manner. The inhibition was most effective when AF was present from the initiation of culture indicating that this drug blocked a critical early step in lymphocyte activation. Marked inhibition of mitogen responsiveness was observed as a result of a 1-h preincubation with AF. The brief preincubation with low concentrations of AF (0.3 micrograms/ml) resulted in a selective inhibition of the accessory function of monocytes but had no effect on potential lymphocyte responsiveness. Preincubation with higher concentrations of AF (greater than 0.6 micrograms/ml) resulted in a more non-specific inhibition of both monocyte and lymphocyte function. These data support the conclusion that AF may function as an immunosuppressive agent.