Could a tiny dose of IL-2 help liver transplant patients ditch heavy drugs?
NCT ID NCT02739412
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.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Boston, Massachusetts, 02215, United States