Neopterin Levels in Alcohol-Dependent Patients

Abstract

Chronic alcohol exposure appears to suppress cell-mediated immunity which may contribute to the high incidence of infections among alcohol-dependent patients. We measured serum neopterin, as a marker of macrophage function and T-lymphocyte activation, in 26 alcohol-dependent patients. The mean serum neopterin in these patients was significantly lower than the mean serum neopterin in matched controls. In those who abstained, the mean serum neopterin at 3 weeks rose and was no longer significantly different from controls. Our findings suggest that alcohol-dependent patients have suppressed macrophage function which may be reversible within 3 weeks of abstention.

Neopterin levels and dexamethasone suppression test in posttraumatic stress disorder

“…Recently, neopterin which is a biopterin precursor released by macrophages has gained a growing importance as an immunological marker in psychiatric disorders (O'Hanlon et al 1996; Korte et al 1998). It is produced by activation of cyclohydrolase, which is stimulated by interferon-γ (INF-γ).…”

Neopterin production in posttraumatic stress disorder before and after pharmacotherapy

“…Neopterin, a biopterin precursor released by macrophages has recently gained growing importance in psychiatric disorders (O'Hanlon et al 1996; Korte et al 1998; Atmaca et al in press). It has been accepted as an important indicator of cellular immune system (Besedovsky et al 1986).…”