The first trial to examine low-dose interleukin-2 (IL-2) in SLE indicated the value of IL-2 in reestablishing immune homeostasis. A total of 40 SLE patients in the open-label, uncontrolled, prospective study received three courses of SC injections of 1 million IU of IL-2, with a 2-week break between courses. Response to IL-2 was swift and robust as determined by a variety of lab and renal function parameters, and improved clinical characteristics. The immunologic basis for the improvements appears to be an immune modulation involving the selective expansion of regulatory T cells, and selective suppression of follicular and IL-17–producing helper T cells. The Peking University People’s Hospital and Monash University sponsored the study.
Dr. Stohl reported consulting fees from Akros Pharma, Janssen, and GlaxoSmithKline. Dr. Furie has received research grants from MedImmune. Dr. Hamidou had no disclosures.