Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
TUMORI JOURNAL, cilt.90, sa.4, ss.387-389, 2004 (SCI-Expanded)
Aims and background: Multiple myeloma cells increase Th3 cytokine response by secreting TGF-beta, which causes defective Th1 and Th2 cytokine responses. Therefore, a significant suppression of the immune system is seen in multiple myeloma. Interferon-alpha (IFN-alpha) is used in the treatment of multiple myeloma due to its immunomodulatory and anti-tumoral effects. We attempted to define the characteristics of immune cytokine responses and the effects of IFN-alpha-2a on the immune response in multiple myeloma. Methods: Fifteen patients with multiple myeloma and 15 healthy controls were enrolled. IFN-a-2a, 3 million units/day x 3 times/week, was administered subcutaneously to the patients for 2 weeks. Cytokines (TGF-beta, IL-1, IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, IFN-gamma) were assessed by the ELISA method in sera of the patients in pretreatment and posttreatment periods and in the sera of the controls. Results: IL-2 and IL-4 levels in patients, before IFN-alpha-2a, were lower than the controls, whereas TGF-beta levels were higher than the controls. In other words, Th3 cytokine response was increased and Th1 and Th2 cytokine responses were decreased in patients. A short course of IFN-alpha-2a increased IL-2 levels. Conclusions: These findings suggest IFN-alpha-2a may enhance nonTh3 cytokine responses in multiple myeloma patients.