A significant enhancement of therapeutic effect against hepatic metastases of M5076 in mice by a liposomal interleukin-2 (mixture).

Recombinant interleukin-2 (IL-2) was strongly and almost completely adsorbed onto small hydrophobic liposomes under optimal conditions (liposome: DSPC-DSPG; molar ratio, 10:1; 30-50 nm in size, ratio of IL-2 to liposome: 4.0 JRU/nmol lipid). This liposomal IL-2 improved the distribution of IL-2 after intravenous administration as reported, previously. Liposomal IL-2 (300-10000 JRU/mouse per day) was significantly more effective than free IL-2 alone for inhibiting against the experimental metastases of M5076 in mice. The inhibitory effect of liposomal IL-2 was greatest in the liver. The ED(50) of liposomal IL-2 and that of free IL-2 in the liver were 1640 and 12500 JRU/mouse per day, respectively. This simple preparation (mixture) using IL-2 and liposome suspension is expected to have potential for increasing therapeutic efficacy against hepatic metastases.