Venlafaxine inhibits the development and differentiation of dendritic cells through the regulation of p-glycoprotein

► Up-regulation of mdr-1, mdr-3 and P-gp during DC development. ► Increased mdr-1 gene expression during DC maturation, but not mdr-3. ► Venlafaxine suppresses P-gp levels during DC maturation, but not mdr-1 gene. ► P-gp suppressor inhibits DC maturation and activation through IL-12 production. ► P-gp of DC is required for DC-mediated Th1/2 polarization and proliferation.