Compounds, genetic constructs, and cancer treatment methods are provided.
Expression vectors were designed to express fusion genes including hIL-2
with a Fc.epsilon.-.gamma. transmembrane anchor derived from a subunit of
the FC epsilon receptor. mRNA and the IL-2tm fusion protein was expressed
in transfected RD995 tumor cells. Expression of the IL-2tm protein on the
tumor cell surface membrane was confirmed by microscopy. RD995 cells
transfected with IL-2tm or pCMV2b (empty expression vector) were
implanted subcutaneously into C3H/HEN mice. Tumors of mice implanted with
10.sup.6 or 10.sup.5 RD995 cells transfected with IL-2tm grew slower than
controls. It is believed that selective expression of cytokines such as
IL-2 on the surface of tumors is likely to stimulate tumor-infiltrating
lymphocytes that are primed and already recognize tumor antigens,
enhancing tumor recognition and killing, potentially avoiding toxicity
associated with known cytokine therapies.