Cyclosproine A inhibits accessory cell and antigen-presenting cell functions of epidermal Langerhans cells

Cyclosprorine A (CsA) inhibits immune responses mainly by impairing the production of interleukin 2 (IL 2) and other lymphokines by activated T cells. In addition, functional subsets of B cells and antigen-presenting cells are sensitive to the suppressive effects of CsA. Because epidermal Langerhans cells (LC) are potent antigen-presenting and accessory cells, and because topically applied CsA has been shwon to inhibit contact dermatitis in vivo, we have investigated the in vitro and in vivo effects of CsA on LC functions. Detailed results of the effects of in vitro treatment with CsA of LC are reported elsewhere.