Compositions and methods of using compositions with accelerated lymphocyte homing immunosuppressive properties

Abstract

The methods and compositions of the invention and the compounds used in the invention involve a novel immunosuppression mechanism, accelerated lymphocyte homing immunosuppression (ALH-immunosuppression). For example, the compound FTY720 specifically directs lymphocytes to the peripheral lymph nodes, mesenteric lymph nodes, and Peyer's patches. By reversibly sequestering lymphocytes in these tissues, the compounds can inhibit an immune response in a mammal. Understanding these mechanisms provides a novel immunosuppression therapy that can synergistically interact with other immunosuppressive compounds. Screening methods for identifying similar ALH-immunosuppression compounds are also described. The invention allows better treatments and therapies wherever an immunosuppression regimen is desired.

1 - 28 . (canceled)  
     
     
         29 . A method for identifying the presence or absence of accelerated lymphocyte homing activity in a sample, comprising: 
 introducing pre-labeled lymphocytes into a mammal,    administering the sample to the mammal,    detecting the presence or absence of pre-labeled lymphocytes in tissue and blood samples of the mammal and    comparing the level detected to a control mammal.    
     
     
         30 . A method as claimed in  claim 29 , wherein the mammal is a rodent.  
     
     
         31 . A method as claimed in  claim 29 , wherein the pre-labeled lymphocytes are labeled with calcien.  
     
     
         32 . A method as claimed in  claim 29 , wherein the pre-labeled lymphocytes contain a genetic sequence label.  
     
     
         33 . A method of manipulating lymphocyte traffic in a mammal comprising: 
 administering a composition comprising an accelerated lymphocyte homing compound, and    administering an antibody to the mammal.    
     
     
         34 . A method as claimed in  claim 33 , wherein the antibody is an anti-lymphocyte antibody or an antibody direct against a lymphocyte homing receptor.