How Leukocytes Activated by Interleukin (LAK) Treatment Works

Lymphokine activated killer cell (LAK) treatment involves the use of interleukin-2. Interleukin-2 is produced by helper T-lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell involved in adaptive immunity. Studies show that interleukin-2 may help to stimulate the immune system’s natural abilities and intravenous infusion may help to shrink tumors. In vitro studies show that interleukin-2 may stimulate lymphokine-activated natural killer cells, which are capable of killing tumor cells. Combining both interleukin-2 and lymphokine-activated killer cells may enhance this effect. Other studies combined LAK therapy with dendritic cell therapy. This resulted in the activation of natural killer cells, which contributed to some anti-tumor activity.

How Leukocytes Activated by Interleukin (LAK) Treatment is Administered

LAK treatment has been studied for its particular effect on patients who do not seem responsive to other forms of immune system treatment. Low dose treatments still maintain high response rates while circumventing many of the potential problems. Clinical trials have used injections of both LAK cells and interleukin-2 via an IV infusion or catheter system. LAK therapy may also be combined with other existing forms of treatment, including stem cell transplantation and monoclonal antibodies. The exact dosage and the frequency of administration will depend on your specific health and the severity of your cancer.

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