Figure 1.

3,6′-dithiothalidomide (3,6′-DT) significantly attenuates the generation of TNF-α and nitrite, and the induction of iNOS protein in LPS activated RAW 264.7 cells. Media nitrite levels were significantly reduced at all 3,6′-DT concentrations evaluated. Media TNF-α protein levels were significantly reduced at 30 µM 3,6′-DT. Cellular levels of iNOS were significantly decreased in drug treated cells at a concentration of 10 and 30 µM. Only cells treated with 3,6′-DT at 60 µM indicated any evidence of cell toxicity, as determined by elevations in the absorbance of culture media observed from the lactate dehydrogenase assay (LDH). Drug effects on TNF-α, nitrite and iNOS at concentrations of 1 to 30 µM, were due to selective anti-inflammatory actions of the drug. Values are expressed as a percent change from drug vehicle control levels, the data are presented as mean ± S.E.M (n = 3 to 4 culture wells per group). * p < 0.05 and *** p < 0.001 compared with the respective control (CNT) group to which vehicle alone was added.