Modulation of Neutrophil Functions by Auranofin

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Abstract
Auranofln, a new anti-arthritic oral gold compound, was studied with regard to its effects on the functions of the neutrophil polymorphonuclear (PMN) granulocyte. Firstly, human PMNs were preincubated in vitro with auranofln in concentrations ranging from 1-4 µ;g/ml, whereafter PMN functions in vitro were assayed. Following such exposure, PMN adherence to nylon fibres was significantly increased and this enhancement was most pronounced at the lower auranofln concentrations (p(Staph, aureus) and soluble (ConA) stimuli was increased by 4 and 28% respectively at 1µ /ml and depressed to 69 and 61 % respectively, at 4 jug/ml of auranofln (pppp<0. 01 at week 23). PMNs from those who responded clinically to the therapy exhibited a reduction in the release of lysozyme induced by fMLP by 43 % after 23 weeks of treatment, while the non-responders showed no change. It is therefore concluded that auranofln modulates neutrophil functions, which might be of importance for clinical effects, as well as being an investigative tool for the study of enhanced PMN functions.