In vivo application of recombinant interleukin 2 in the immunotherapy of established cytomegalovirus infection

We have shown in a murine model system for cytomegalovirus (CMV)
disease in the immunocompromised host that in vivo application of
recombinant human IL-2 (rhIL-2) can enhance the antiviral effect of
a limited number of CD8+T lymphocytes, not only in prophylaxis, but
also in therapy, when virus has already colonized host tissues. The
observed net effect of IL-2 was consistent with the assumption of
daily effector population doublings. The prospects for
IL-2-supported immunotherapy of established CMV infection depend
upon the tissues involved in disease. It appears that the prospects
for controlling established CMV adrenalitis are less promising than
for a therapy of interstitial CMV pneumonia.