In vitro effect of methylprednisolone on protein synthesis of activated canine thymus derived lymphocytes

Techniques of studying the protein synthesis of canine thymus derived lymphocytes in vitro were developed. Activation of these cells by PHA or mixed lymphocyte cultures increases protein synthesis. Methylprednisolone decreases the stimulation of protein synthesis of these activated lymphocytes. The decrease in protein synthesis is not caused by lympholysis. In this respect, the dog, like man, can be considered a steroid resistant animal. It is postulated that this effect of methylprednisolone contributes to its immunosuppressive action by inhibiting the afferent limb of the immune response.