. Immunosuppressive Drugs: Mechanisms of Action in Transplantation and Autoimmunity
Immunosuppressants are designed to inhibit the immune response to prevent organ rejection or treat autoimmune pathologies.
Calcineurin Inhibitors (e.g., Cyclosporine, Tacrolimus): These block T-cell activation by inhibiting the phosphatase calcineurin.
Antimetabolites (e.g., Mycophenolate Mofetil): These interfere with DNA synthesis, specifically targeting rapidly dividing lymphocytes.
Biologics: Monoclonal antibodies target specific cytokines (like TNF-alpha) or cell surface markers (like CD20) to dampen the inflammatory cascade.
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