Question

Cyclosporine is commonly used topically to treat certain eye conditions including keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS). Which of the following is a known mechanism of action for cyclosporine?

Inhibition of T-cell activation Antagonism of vitamin K Stabilization of mast cells Inhibition of cyclooxygenase (COX)

Answer 1

Cyclosporine's mechanism of action in treating KCS and other eye conditions is the inhibition of T-cell activation, which it achieves by suppressing interleukin production.

Step-by-step explanation:

The known mechanism of action for cyclosporine when used topically to treat eye conditions like keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is the inhibition of T-cell activation. Cyclosporine works by suppressing the immune system, specifically by inhibiting the production of interleukin, a cytokine which stimulates T-cell activity and proliferation. This is crucial in conditions where a reduction in the immune response is desirable to prevent tissue damage, as in the case of KCS, where the immune system may attack the eye's own tissues.