Clofazimine-mediated augmentation of LPS-induced tumor necrosis factor production in macrophages

Nihon Rai Gakkai Zasshi. 1994 Nov;63(3):86-94. doi: 10.5025/hansen1977.63.86.

Abstract

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) exerts multiple biological activities including immune response. It is also believed to play an important role in anti-bacterial response. In this study in vitro, we observed augmentation of LPS-induced TNF production from mouse macrophages by clofazimine treatment. Rifampicin, however, did not indicate such an activity. Clofazimine itself, on the other hand, did not have any TNF-inducing activity. Clofazimine is a well known anti-leprosy drug; in addition, from the results obtained here, this drug could induce anti-M. leprae response of host by way of the augmented immune response by enhanced cytokine production from macrophages.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Clofazimine / pharmacology*
  • Drug Synergism
  • Female
  • Lipopolysaccharides / pharmacology*
  • Macrophages, Peritoneal / metabolism*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred ICR
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / biosynthesis*

Substances

  • Lipopolysaccharides
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha
  • Clofazimine