Interferon-alpha 2b plus ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis C after liver transplantation: a randomized study.

Background And Aims: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) reinfection after liver transplantation is frequent and leads to chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis. The use of antiviral therapy in this situation remains controversial. This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of interferon alfa-2b plus ribavirin for recurrent hepatitis C following liver transplantation.

Treatment of Crohn's disease with recombinant human interleukin 10 induces the proinflammatory cytokine interferon gamma.

Background: Interleukin 10 (IL-10) exerts anti-inflammatory actions by counteracting many biological effects of interferon gamma (IFN-gamma).

Aims: To investigate this in humans, we studied the effects of human recombinant IL-10 administration on IFN-gamma production by patient leucocytes. Furthermore, we assessed the IFN-gamma inducible molecule neopterin and nitrite/nitrate serum levels, which are indicative of endogenous nitric oxide formation.

Low ileal interleukin 10 concentrations are predictive of endoscopic recurrence in patients with Crohn's disease.

Background: Endoscopic recurrence after surgery in Crohn's disease is frequent and unpredictable. Abnormal intestinal production of pro- (interleukin (IL)-1 beta, tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha)) and anti- (IL-10) inflammatory cytokines has been associated with severe outcome in experimental models of colitis.

Patients And Methods: We evaluated if ileal TNF-alpha, IL-1 beta, or IL-10 mRNA levels measured at the time of surgery predict endoscopic recurrence, and if ileal IL-10 levels are associated with particular IL-10 promoter alleles.

Interleukin 10 (Tenovil) in the prevention of postoperative recurrence of Crohn's disease.

Background And Aims: New lesions of Crohn's disease occur early after ileal or ileocolonic resection and ileocolonic anastomosis. We performed a double blind controlled trial to evaluate the safety and tolerance of recombinant human interleukin 10 (IL-10; Tenovil) in subjects operated on for Crohn's disease. We also assessed the effect of Tenovil in preventing endoscopic recurrence 12 weeks after surgery.