Cyclosporin A
Cyclosporin A (pronunciation: /ˌsaɪkləˈspɔːrɪn/ SY-kloh-SPOR-in) is a powerful immunosuppressant drug widely used in post-allogeneic organ transplant to reduce the activity of the patient's immune system, and therefore the risk of organ rejection. It has been studied for its effects on the immune response and has been used in the treatment of autoimmune diseases and infections.
Etymology
The term "Cyclosporin A" is derived from the fungus Tolypocladium inflatum from which it was first isolated. The suffix "A" is used to differentiate it from other members of the cyclosporin family.
Pharmacology
Cyclosporin A works by inhibiting the activity of calcineurin, a protein phosphatase involved in the activation of T cells of the immune system. This inhibition prevents the transcription of interleukin-2, a cytokine that stimulates the growth and differentiation of T cell response.
Related Terms
- Immunosuppression: The reduction of the activation or efficacy of the immune system.
- Calcineurin: A calcium and calmodulin-dependent serine/threonine protein phosphatase.
- Interleukin-2: A type of cytokine signaling molecule in the immune system.
- T cells: A type of lymphocyte that plays a central role in cell-mediated immunity.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cyclosporin A
- Wikipedia's article - Cyclosporin A
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