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Introduction
of Ascomycin
Ascomycin,
also called Immunomycin, FR-900520, FK520, is an ethyl
analog of FK506 (tacrolimus) with strong immunosuppressant
properties. It can be used to treat autoimmune diseases and
skin diseases, and can help prevent rejection after an organ
transplant.
Ascomycin acts by binding to immunophilins, especially
macrophilin-12. It appears that Ascomycin inhibits the
production of Th1 (interferon- and IL-2) and Th2 (IL-4 and
IL-10) cytokines. Additionally, ascomycin preferentially
inhibits the activation of mast cells, an important cellular
component of the atopic response. Ascomycin produces a more
selective immunomodulatory effect in that it inhibits the
elicitation phase of allergic contact dermatitis but does
not impair the primary immune response when administered
systemically.
Ascomycin is produced by the fermentation of Streptomyces
hygroscopicus.
Disclaimer:
Information on this page is provided for general
information purposes. You should not make a clinical treatment
decision based on information contained in this page without
consulting other references including the package insert of
the drug, textbooks and where relevant, expert opinion. We
cannot be held responsible for any errors you make in
administering drugs mentioned on this page, nor for use of any
erroneous information contained on this page.
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