antithymocyte globulin

Antithymocyte globulin is a polyclonal antibody preparation derived from the serum of rabbits or horses immunized with human thymocytes. It is an immunosuppressive biologic used primarily for the prophylaxis and treatment of acute rejection in organ transplantation, especially kidney transplants, and for the treatment of moderate to severe aplastic anemia. The drug works by binding to multiple T-cell surface antigens, leading to T-cell depletion through complement-mediated cytotoxicity and apoptosis. This results in profound suppression of cell-mediated immunity[1][2][3][5][8]. Rabbit-derived preparations are marketed as Thymoglobulin, while horse-derived versions are known as Atgam.

Brand names

AtgamThymoglobulin

Other names

antithymocyte immune globulinanti-thymocyte globulinantithymocyte immunoglobulin