[Influence of combined application of antilymphocyte globulin and plasmatic alpha-globulin fraction on precipitin formation in rabbits (author's transl)].

In the experiments on rabbits immunized with human albumin the effect of combined application of both antilymphocyte globulin (ALG) and plasmatic alpha-globulin fraction (agf) on antibody formation was studied. The course of immune response had been compared to groups administered the above preparation alone, and to controls which had been applied saline. It was found that both ALG alone and AGF were capable to a certain extent of suppressing precipitin formation; a pronounced suppression appeared following the combined effect of both drugs. A strong suppression, however, was likewise attained when a high dose of AGF alone was applied. These findings are discussed in association with other statements that under given experimental conditions the combined application of both drugs, besides the immunosuppressive effect on the formation of antibodies against the antigen used (albumin) showed also an adverse side effect. The latter resulted in a considerably increased level of antibodies against ALG as compared to the group receiving ALG only. The authors point out the necessity of a further follow-up this interesting experience and, unless a more feasible pattern is found which would eliminate the side effects, warn against eventual clinical use of this drug combination under study.