horse anti-thymocyte globulin

A purified, concentrated and sterile solution of horse-derived gamma globulin obtained by the immunization of horses with human T lymphocytes, with T-cell depleting and immunosuppressive activities. Upon administration, horse anti-thymocyte globulin (hATG) specifically recognizes, modulates and destroys T lymphocytes. Although the exact mechanism of action by which hATG causes immunosuppression is not completely understood, it is likely caused by a combination of T-lymphocyte depletion, reduction in T-cell activation and modulation of their cytotoxic activities. Administering of hATG prior to transplantation may reduce the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD).