Increased local antitumor effects of interleukin 2 liposomes in mice with MCA-106 sarcoma pulmonary metastases

Cancer Res. 1990 Mar 15;50(6):1853-6.

Abstract

The effects of liposome formulations of interleukin 2 (IL-2) and local route were studied in C57BL/6 mice with MCA-106 sarcoma pulmonary metastases. IL-2 liposomes made by hydration of powdered dimyristoyl-phosphatidylcholine with aqueous recombinant IL-2 had 95% of the IL-2 associated with the lipid fraction. When mice with pulmonary micrometastases were treated once daily with free cytokine on days 5, 6, and 7 after tumor inoculation, the intrathoracic route was superior to the i.p. or s.c. routes. When IL-2 liposomes were administered by the local intrathoracic route, significantly better antitumor effects (P less than 0.01) were seen compared to empty liposomes or free IL-2 as determined by (a) increased survival and (b) reduced numbers of pulmonary metastases. Minimal toxicity was observed. Results indicate that local route and incorporation of IL-2 in liposomes may enhance therapeutic efficacy and facilitate more practical daily dosing regimens.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Drug Carriers
  • Immunotherapy
  • Interleukin-2 / administration & dosage*
  • Interleukin-2 / therapeutic use
  • Liposomes
  • Lung Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Lung Neoplasms / therapy
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Sarcoma, Experimental / therapy*

Substances

  • Drug Carriers
  • Interleukin-2
  • Liposomes