Abstract
Summary
Administration of 6-mercaptopurine in doses as great or greater than those which effectively inhibit the immunological responses of rabbits failed to show suppressive action in guinea pigs. No depression was found in the production of precipitins by guinea pigs following mild stimulation by a soluble protein antigen (BGG), nor in development of delayed hypersensitivity in response to sensitization by a simple chemical (picryl chloride). These findings are incompatible with the view that 6-MP is a general inhibitor of antibody synthesis in all animal species.
ADDENDUM. After submission of this article for publication our attention was directed to a statement by Salvin and Smith (J. Exp. Med., 1960, v111, 465) that 6-MP in quantities up to 75 mg/kg/day does not prevent the appearance of delayed or Arthus types of hypersensitivity in guinea pigs.
The authors wish to express their appreciation for the skilled technical assistance of Miss Rita Hixon and Mrs. Olga Van Damme.
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