Interleukin-2

Several studies have shown that both oxidative stress and inflammation are linked to the process of hypertension and that the immune system is also involved in this age-related process. More specifically, the oxygen stress related to immune system dysfunction seems to have a key role in senescence, in agreement with the oxidation/ inflammation theory of aging. From a practical point of view, and according to our own research, the immune functions change in a similar fashion in hypertension and aging.

Immunoregulatory properties of a novel antimalarial drug dihydroartemisinin (DHA) were investigated in vitro. DHA 0.5-5 mumol.L-1 enhanced the lymphocyte proliferation induced by Con A. Interleukin 2 (IL-2) production and its mRNA expression by both Con A-stimulated mouse splenocytes and a T cell line LBRM-33-1A5 were also augmented by DHA. In contrast, DHA 0.5-5 mumol.L-1 did not show any effect on the lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-induced lymphocyte proliferation and the spontaneous and mitogen-induced proliferation of transformed T cells.

Single doses (250, 500, 1,000, or 2,000 units/kg) of an ovine polyclonal-specific Fab fragment directed against tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) were given to 17 adult patients with severe falciparum malaria immediately before treatment with artesunate in a pilot study to assess safety and optimal dosage with a view to future studies. Clinical and laboratory variables were compared with 11 controls. In the groups given Fab, there was a tendency for a faster resolution of clinical manifestations and reduction of fever but also a tendency towards longer parasite clearance times.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Artemisinin and its derivatives exhibit potent immunosuppressive activity. The purpose of the current study was to examine the immunosuppressive activity of artemether directly on T lymphocytes and to explore its potential mode of action. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH: In vitro, T-cell proliferation was measured using [(3)H]-thymidine incorporation assay in cells stimulated with ConA, alloantigen and anti-CD3 antibody. CFSE-labeled cell division and cell cycle distribution were monitored by flow cytometry.

BACKGROUND: Maharishi Amrit Kalash (MAK) 5, one of the Ayurvedic food supplements, belongs to a group of substances known as Rasayana. MAK5 and other Rasayanas are believed to enhance the body's resistance to infections and disease, and enhance longevity. In this study, we determined the effects of administration of MAK5, one of the Ayurvedic food supplements on immune functions in young and old mice.

BACKGROUND: Maharishi Amrit Kalash (MAK) 5, one of the Ayurvedic food supplements, belongs to a group of substances known as Rasayana. MAK5 and other Rasayanas are believed to enhance the body's resistance to infections and disease, and enhance longevity. In this study, we determined the effects of administration of MAK5, one of the Ayurvedic food supplements on immune functions in young and old mice.

Immunostimulatory activity of AC II, a registered ayurvedic preparation prepared at Amala Ayurvedic Research Centre for treating HIV and AIDS is reported. AC II administration could significantly enhance the mitogen-induced proliferation of lymphocytes of spleen cells. It was also found to increase cell-mediated immune responses in normal and tumor-bearing control animals. Oral administration of AC II significantly enhanced Natural Killer cell activity in normal and tumor-bearing animals on the 7th day, which was observed earlier than the tumor-bearing control animals and normal animals.

Indukantha Ghritha (IG), a polyherbal drug used for centuries in Ayurveda, is claimed to be successful in the treatment of respiratory diseases and as a rejuvenating drug. To date, little is known about the immunomodulatory role of IG in recurrent upper respiratory tract infections (RURIs). This study was designed to scientifically validate and evaluate the immunological response mechanisms in patients with RURI.

An important characteristic of tumors is that they at some point in their development overcome the surveillance of the immune system. Tumors secrete exosomes, multivesicular bodies containing a distinct set of proteins that can fuse with cells of the circulating immune system. Purified exosomes from TS/A breast cancer cells, but not non-exosomal fractions, inhibit (at concentrations of nanograms per ml protein) IL-2-induced natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity.

BACKGROUND: While immune system dysregulation has been postulated to play a role in Tourette's disorder (TD), most research has focused on the hypothesis of an autoimmune process similar to rheumatic fever. This study examined the potential role of cytokines, modulators of the immune system. We hypothesized that children with TD would have increased levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL)-12, IL-1 beta and IL-6, and decreased IL-2. We also explored whether comorbid obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) had an effect on the cytokine profile of TD patients.