PMID: 6972690Jan 1, 1980Paper

Drug effects on autoantibodies and immune complexes

Agents and Actions. Supplements
E J Holborow

Abstract

In connective tissue diseases, putatively immunosuppressive drugs may lower antinuclear antibody (ANA), anti-DNA antibody and rheumatoid factor titres. Penicillamine may induce or increase titres of antinuclear and/or anti-muscle antibodies. The mechanism of induction of penicillamine antinuclear autoimmunity evidently differs from that seen with hydrallazine and procainamide. While the latter may induce circulating immune complex formation, the effect of penicillamine on circulating immune complex levels in rheumatoid arthritis is variable. Our recent findings will be discussed.

Related Concepts

Related Feeds

Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune diseases occur as a result of an attack by the immune system on the body’s own tissues resulting in damage and dysfunction. There are different types of autoimmune diseases, in which there is a complex and unknown interaction between genetics and the environment. Discover the latest research on autoimmune diseases here.