The Effect of Mafosfamide on Differential Activation of T-helper Subsets

The differential activation of Th1 and Th2 cells using mafosfamide (Mafo) was investigated in vitro in a rat model of alloreactivity. The results of this study are compatible with the hypothesis that Mafo, like its parent compound cyclophosphamide, is selectively active against Th2-type T-helper cells when administered at low doses ( 0.1 M). Mafo suppressed the activation of suppressor cells and increased cytotoxicity and proliferation of CD4 rather than CD8 T-cells. Interestingly, treatment with Mafo reversed the inhibitory effect of cAMP on lymph node cell proliferation. It seems to interfere with second messenger signalling pathways, through interactions in a subtle way with the cAMP-dependent protein kinase system. Therefore, Mafo can open up new possibilities for examination in the colonogenic cell assay, in vitro, and also for the regional therapy of allergy, specifically for low doses of Mafo, as an immunomodulator.