Differential Inhibition by Azathioprine and 6-Mercaptopurine of Specific Suppressor T Cell Generation in Mice

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Abstract
Doses of 100 mg/kg per day and 55 mg/kg per day of azathioprine (AZ) and 6-mercaptopurine (6-MP), respectively, significantly suppressed anti-sheep red blood cell (SRBC) responses in CBA mice, assayed by the complement-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (CDCC) test and by serum titration. Four injections of similar doses of the agents were given to donors of carrier-specific suppressor T cells, generated by 2 immunizations with SRBC, and transferred to syngeneic recipients sensitized with the TNP [trinitrophenyl] hapten on SRBC carrier. Anti-TNP response of the recipients was assayed by the CDCC, using TNP-coated EL4 [mouse leukemia] target cells. Whereas 6-MP, given after or before the 2nd immunization of the donors with carrier SRBC, caused abrogation of suppressor cell activity, equimolar doses of AZ were less inhibitory to suppressor cell generation.