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The effect of D-penicillamine on polymorphonuclear leukocyte function
The Journal of Clinical Investigation
|October 1, 1976
Summary
D-Penicillamine reduces polymorphonuclear leukocyte chemotaxis, crucial for rheumatoid arthritis treatment. It preserves phagocytosis and lysosomal enzyme function, ensuring bacterial defense in patients.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- D-Penicillamine is a chelating agent used for rheumatoid arthritis.
- Its effects on polymorphonuclear leukocyte (PMN) functions are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate D-Penicillamine's impact on PMN chemotaxis, phagocytosis, and lysosomal enzyme release.
- To compare D-Penicillamine's effects with its parent compound, D-cysteine.
Main Methods:
- Assessing beta-glucuronidase release from PMNs after latex particle phagocytosis.
- Measuring lactic dehydrogenase release to evaluate cell damage.
- Quantifying hemolytic complement levels.
- Evaluating PMN chemotaxis in response to D-Penicillamine and D-cysteine.
Main Results:
- D-Penicillamine did not affect PMN phagocytosis or beta-glucuronidase release.
- No significant cell damage or complement reduction was observed at therapeutic concentrations.
- D-Penicillamine significantly inhibited PMN chemotaxis in a dose-dependent manner.
- D-cysteine also inhibited chemotaxis, but to a lesser extent than D-penicillamine.
Conclusions:
- D-Penicillamine's therapeutic benefit in rheumatoid arthritis may stem from reduced PMN chemotaxis into joints.
- Preserved phagocytosis and enzyme function allow for bacterial clearance, explaining the low infection rates in patients.
