Could a tiny dose of IL-2 help liver transplant patients ditch heavy drugs?

NCT ID NCT02739412

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether very low doses of interleukin-2 (IL-2), given as shots under the skin for 4 weeks, could increase regulatory T-cells (Tregs) in liver transplant recipients. The goal was to see if this could eventually allow patients to take fewer immunosuppressant drugs. Only 6 adults who had received a liver transplant 2-4 years earlier took part.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Interleukin-2 (IL-2)
What this could lead to: If successful, this approach could help liver transplant patients rely less on strong immunosuppressant drugs, reducing side effects and improving long-term health.
What could go wrong: This was a very small, early-phase trial with only 6 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The treatment may not effectively control rejection, and risks like immune overactivation are possible.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

LIVER TRANSPLANTATION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States

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