Enhancement of IgE Antibody Formation in the Rabbit by Adrenergic Antagonists

Abstract

The effects of adrenergic antagonists on the humoral immune response of rabbits to egg albumin was studied. Propranolol, a β-adrenergic antagonist, when administered at a dosage of 20 mg/kg of body weight, enhanced both passive hemagglutinating and IgE (passive cutaneous anaphylaxis) antibody formation. Phenoxybenzamine, an α-antagonist, at 0.4–40 mg/kg had a similar adjuvant effect. A marked delay in the immune response was noted with high dosages of phenoxybenzamine. Possible mechanisms of the adjuvant effects of these drugs are discussed.

Risk factors in early childhood for the development of atopic diseases

“…Medication with the P-receptor blocking agent propranolol during the first trimester of pregnancy has been reported to be associated with an increased risk of allergy in the children (5). This observation is interesting because P-receptor blockade may enhance IgE antibody formation in animals (46,66).…”

Intrauterine Exposure to the Beta-Adrenergic Receptor-Blocking Agent Metoprolol and Allergy

“…Thus, it has been reported that administration of the p-adren ergic antagonists propranolol and phenoxybenzamine enhances IgE antibody formation in rabbits [10]. It has also been reported that addition of propranolol to human blood lymphocytes in vitro causes in creased IgE production [II], (I-Adrenergic receptor-blocking drug agents, e.g.…”

Effects of a Beta‐Receptor Blocking Agent (Propranolol) on Synthesis of IgE in vitro by Peripheral Blood Lymphocytes from Atopic Patients

“…In animals, IgE production can be enhanced by treatment with beta-receptor blockers (5,17) and a beta-receptor stimulating agent can decrease IgE production (17). The results of the present study indicate that, under certain conditions, the in vitro IgE synthesis of human lymphocytes increases when a beta-receptor inactivated calf serum.…”