IL-3 IN THE CLINIC

Since the cloning of human interleukin 3 (IL-3) in 1986 [1] and the de monstration of its proliferative effects on multiple hematopoietic pro genitor cells, IL-3 has been widely studied to treat different states of bone marrow failure or hematologic malignancies, to mobilize or exp and hematopoietic progenitor cells for transplantation, and to support engraftment after bone marrow transplantation. However, no condition for the clinical use of IL-3 has been established so far despite its t heoretical advantages as an early-acting cytokine and in contrast to e rythropoietin (EPO), G-CSF, or GM-CSF all of which have already been a pproved for several clinical modalities, Here we shortly review our cu rrent knowledge about the effects of IL-3 on the molecular and cellula r level, summarize recent clinical studies with IL-3, and discuss furt her perspectives for use of this cytokine.