Interlenkin-2 alone and in combination with other cytokines in melanoma: the investigational approach at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center

The clinical data that have been accumulated so far suggests a significant influence of IL-2 dose and schedule on the immunobiological effects and clinical toxicities observed with this cytokine. Consequently, the series of Phase I and Phase II clinical trials conducted at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center in patients with advanced malignant melanoma investigating the use of IL-2 in combination with other cytokines, monoclonal antibodies, or ex vivo activated effector cells have used a common dose and schedule of IL-2 administration for which abundant immunobiological information already exists. This approach allows cross-trial comparison of experience with toxicities, immunobiological observations and clinical activity by a group of investigatiors within a single institution, and more rapid and valid evolution towards combination biological therapy, which preclinical data suggest will have greater activity than single agent therapy.