INTERLEUKIN 2 (IL-2¸ T-CELL GROWTH FACTOR¸ ALDESLE)

a cytokine produced by activated CD4 cells that promotes the proliferation and activity of CD4 cells, CTL and natural killer cells. IL-2 is associated with cell-mediated (TH1) immune response. Recombinant IL-2 (Aldesleukin, Proleukin) is used for cancer therapy and is under study as a immunomodulatory treatment for Kaposi's sarcoma and HIV disease. Side effects include flu-like symptoms (fever, chills), decreased blood pressure and anorexia.