0000000000359031
AUTHOR
R. Schleyerbach
Differential effects of leflunomide on leukocytes: Inhibition of ratin vivo adhesion and humanin vitro oxidative burst without affecting surface marker modulation
Leflunomide has been shown to combat effectively autoimmune diseases in a number of animal models, as well as chronic polyarthritis of humans. Here we report on the effects of this novel drug on the adherence of leukocytes to endothelium, an essential event in establishment and maintenance of inflammation. The entry of cells into tissues is dependent on interactions of adhesion molecules. The process of diapedesis, which these molecules control, involves three phases: tethering, triggering of receptors on endothelial cells and firm attachment of leukocytes to these cells. The interaction of LECAM-1 (constitutively expressed on circulating leukocytes) and P- and E-selectins on the vessel wll…
Leflunomide (HWA 486), a novel immunomodulating compound for the treatment of autoimmune disorders and reactions leading to transplantation rejection.
Leflunomide has been shown to be very effective in preventing and curing several autoimmune animal diseases. Further, this agent is as effective as cyclosporin A in preventing the rejection of skin and kidney transplants in rats. Preliminary results from patients suffering from severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis demonstrated that clinical and immunological parameters could be improved with leflunomide therapy. Mode of action studies revealed that this substance antagonizes the proliferation inducing activity of several cytokines and is cytostatic for certain cell types. In this light, we could show that tyrosine phosphorylation of the RR-SRC peptide substrate and the autophosphorylation o…