Effect of the immunomodulator LF 1695 on T-lymphocytes and macrophages. Activity in HIV infection.

LF 1695, a synthetic immunomodulator with a low mol. wt, has been shown to exert its activity on T-lymphocytes and macrophages. It induced T-cell differentiation of bone marrow precursor cells which acquired the expression of CD3, CD4 and/or CD8. It increased lymphocyte proliferative responses to mitogens, antigens and allogeneic cells. IL-2 production was increased in Con A-activated but not in resting lymphocytes. Added to macrophages, LF 1695 augmented IL-1 production and LTB4 synthesis but it decreased PGE2 secretion. Hematological reconstitution of animals, following bone marrow alteration by irradiation or chemotherapy, was accelerated. Many of the effects of this compound may result from the enhancement of interleukin production, by macrophages especially. After investigations of LF 1695 effect on HIV-infected cells, clinical trials have been initiated in AIDS and ARC patients.