Receptor and antibody interactions of human interleukin-3 characterized by mutational analysis.

Human interleukin-3 (hIL-3) is a regulator of proliferation and differentiation of multipotent hemopoietic progenitor cells. Mutants of hIL-3 have been constructed by oligonucleotide-directed mutagenesis and expressed in Escherichia coli and Bacillus licheniformis. Purified muteins were assayed for induction of DNA synthesis in IL-3-dependent human cells and for binding to the IL-3 receptor.

Induction of monocyte proliferation and HIV expression by IL-3 does not interfere with anti-viral activity of zidovudine.

Myelosuppression is a major symptom in the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). Moreover zidovudine, an anti-retroviral drug used to treat AIDS patients has myelosuppressive side effects. Therefore treatment with IL-3, a multi-lineage hemopoietic growth factor may be beneficial for zidovudine-treated individuals.

Concepts in immunodermatology.

This review describes the various processes which take place in the immunological network of the skin under physiologic or pathological circumstances. A full understanding of the mechanisms in action is important as it could lead to the development of an entirely new class of therapeutics.

Successful treatment of EAE in rhesus monkeys with MHC class II specific monoclonal antibodies.

Experimental Allergic Encephalomyelitis (EAE) was induced in rhesus monkeys by subcutaneous immunization with calfbrain homogenate in complete Freunds adjuvant. Monkeys were treated with major histocompatibility complex (MHC) Class II specific monoclonal antibodies (MoAb) as soon as the first clinical EAE signs became apparent. Two different treatments were tested.

Side effects and immunogenicity of murine lymphocyte-specific monoclonal antibodies in subhuman primates.

The immediate side effects of lymphocyte-specific monoclonal antibody treatment of nearly 150 monkeys is documented in this study. Immediate side effects were only seen with antibodies specific for CD3 and CD8. These side effects are most likely related to stimulation of T cells to produce lymphokines (CD3) and/or to the rapid cell clearance (CD3 and CD8).