J.Jpn. Surg. Soc.. 93(10): 1272-1281, 1992

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Original article

IN VIVO EFFECT OF INTERLEUKIN-2 (IL-2) ON IMMUNOPOTENTIATION IN IRRADIATED MICE

This study's purpose was to evaluate the effect of IL-2 on the recovery from immunosuppressive state in vivo. Young adult mice (ddY) were rendered immunodeficient by whole body irradiation (300 rad). IL-2 (20000 u/head/day) was administered intraperitoneally for 5 days after irradiation. In the experilnent (I) immunological parameters were investigated. In the IL-2-treated mice peripheral lymphocytes and neutrophils were increased, but there was no change in the T and B lymphocyte ratio. The proliferative responses of spleen cells to mitogens were improved in the IL-2-treated mice. A significant expansion of macrophages in the intraperitoneal cavity was demonstrated. In the experiment (II) irradiated mice were given peritonitis by 1 puncture with a 23 gauge needle through their ligated cecum. This peritonitis model was followed for 2 weeks after ligation and puncture of the cecum. In the mice with IL-2 pretreatment and antibiotic therapy, the survival rate was significantly improved, compared with mice that only received antibiotic therapy. Administration of carragenan and anti-T cell monoclonal antibodies significantly decreased the survival rate. These results suggested macrophages as well as functional T cells were necessary to decrease the mortality rate. In conclusion, IL-2 may have a remarkably protective effect against infection in immunodeficient state.

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