Cellular antiproliferative action exerted by auranofin.

Auranofin (AF) is a new orally absorbed coordinated gold compound currently undergoing Phase I studies for its use in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Our investigations with RAJI lymphoma, HeLa carcinoma, and EBV-transformed cells indicate AF exerts an inhibitory effect on DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis as assessed by 3H-thymidine, 3H-uridine, and 3H-leucine uptake, respectively. A rapid and persistent dose dependent inhibition of 3H-thymidine uptake was observed at gold concentrations of 50-100 microgram/dl while all parameters were inhibited after a 24 hr exposure to 100 microgram/dl. Reductions in viability and surface morphological changes were also observed. These results suggest AF exerts a significant inhibitory effect on essential biological processes and functions.