The effects of extracellular nucleotides and agents which elevate intracellular cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cyclic AMP) concentrations on human lymphocyte metabolism have been studied. Aminophylline, isoproterenol, and prostaglandins, all of which elevate lymphocyte cyclic AMP levels, inhibited incorporation of 3H-labeled thymidine, uridine, and leucine into the DNA, RNA, and protein of phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated lymphocytes. Aminophylline inhibition was maximal only when the inhibitor was added within 1 hr after exposure of cells to PHA, suggesting that a relatively early step in the lymphocyte transformation process may be affected.
Jay W. Smith, Alton L. Steiner, Charles W. Parker