recombinant human interleukin-15

Recombinant human interleukin-15 (rhIL-15) is a synthetic form of the naturally occurring cytokine interleukin-15. It is produced using recombinant DNA technology, typically in Escherichia coli expression systems[7]. rhIL-15 acts as an immunostimulatory agent by promoting the proliferation and activation of natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T cells, enhancing their cytotoxic activity against tumor cells[4][5][6]. It also supports the survival and homeostasis of memory T cells. The drug has been investigated primarily for its potential in cancer immunotherapy, both as a monotherapy and in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors such as nivolumab and ipilimumab[3][9]. Clinical studies have shown that rhIL-15 can induce significant expansion of NK and CD8+ T cell populations but is limited by a short plasma half-life (approximately 2.5–2.7 hours), necessitating continuous or repeated dosing to maintain therapeutic levels[5][8]. Toxicities observed include fever, chills, hypotension, thrombocytopenia, and elevated liver enzymes at higher doses; alternative dosing strategies such as subcutaneous or continuous infusion are being explored to improve tolerability[6][8].

Other names

Interleukin-15, human recombinant