ABSTRACT
The interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor is a multiunit complex found on the cell surface of activated T lymphocytes and monocytes as well as in certain malignancies. The human immune system has an unlimited capacity to recognize and generate a response to antigen; a component of this response involves the activation of T lymphocytes. T cells are responsible for mediating regulator functions such as help or suppression as well as effector functions such as the cytotoxic destruction of antigen and the production of lym-phokines. Additional phase I and phase II trials are planned or are underway examining means of improving the efficacy of this IL-2 fusion toxin in autoimmune disease, as well as in cancer therapy. In the development of these types of agents, issues associated with potency, pharmacokinetics, and dosing schedule may be more important than with traditional antineoplastic agents.
