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Interleukin 2: Biology and biochemistry

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Abstract

Since its discovery as a T-cell growth factor, interleukin 2 (IL-2) has attracted considerable scientific attention, not only as a useful reagent for the maintenance of large numbers of effector T lymphocytes but as a potentially potent immunoregulatory molecule, which could be of therapeutic usefulness in a number of clinical conditions. Outlined in this communication is a summary of the more salient biochemical features of murine and human IL-2, as well as the results of initial molecular biology experimentation aimed at the eventual production of IL-2 by recombinant DNA methodologies. These studies, together with those detailing thein vivo effectiveness of IL-2 therapy in a number of murine model situations, provide a current glimpse of future IL-2 aims and directions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Immunex Corporation, 51 University Building, Suite 600, 98101, Seattle, Washington

    Steven Gillis

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  1. Steven Gillis
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Gillis, S. Interleukin 2: Biology and biochemistry. J Clin Immunol 3, 1–13 (1983). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00919133

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00919133

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