Strength of the human mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) and its suppression by azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine.

ABSTRACT

Azathioprine (36 microM) had a significantly (P less than 0.00003) greater inhibitory effect on human MLR responses below 20,000 counts/min than on responses above 20,000 counts/min. In contrast, 6-mercaptopurine (100 microM) had a similar suppressive effect on MLR responses below and above 20,000 counts/min suggesting it has a different mode of action to azathioprine.