Question

What is the mechanism of action of tacrolimus?

Answer 1

Tacrolimus exerts its mechanism of action as an immunosuppressive drug by inhibiting calcineurin, thereby preventing the activation of T lymphocytes and suppressing the immune response.

Step-by-step explanation:

Tacrolimus, a calcineurin inhibitor, interferes with the function of calcineurin, a crucial enzyme in T lymphocyte activation. T lymphocytes play a central role in the immune system's response to foreign invaders. By inhibiting calcineurin, tacrolimus disrupts the signaling pathway responsible for activating T lymphocytes. This interference results in the suppression of the immune response, making tacrolimus particularly valuable in preventing organ rejection following transplantation and managing certain autoimmune disorders. The drug's immunosuppressive properties help control excessive immune activity, reducing the risk of rejection and autoimmune-related inflammation.