Combination of cytokines: current status and future prospects

Clinical trials with individual cytokines and extensive in vitro studies have provided the basis for the in vivo use of these molecules in combination. Animal models, with haemopoietic growth factors as well as preliminary studies in humans--as shown by our studies with the sequential use of IL-3 and GM-CSF in patients receiving intensive chemotherapy--indicate that the selection of the appropriate cytokines could optimize haematological responses according to particular clinical requirements. That immunotherapy with IL-2 can induce regression of disseminated human malignancies serves as an encouraging starting point for combinations with other cytokines with the goal of improving the therapeutic efficacy and reducing toxicity. Future prospects of combination therapy will be discussed.