A pilot study of natural interferon γ therapy for chronic hepatitis C

Background: To assess the effectiveness and side effects of interferon (IFN)γ therapy for chronic hepatitis C. Materials and methods: A single dose of 1 × 10⁶ IU of natural IFNγ was administered intramuscularly daily for 4 weeks to five patients with chronic active hepatitis C. Alanine aminotransferase levels, 2′-5′ oligoadenylate synthetase activity, β₂ microglobulin levels, IFNγ activity and HCV RNA levels were measured in sera. Results: ALT level, 2′-5′ oligoadenylate synthetase (2-5AS) activity, β₂ microglobulin (BMG) level, and IFNγ activity increased from 1–2 weeks after the start of IFNγ. However, HCV RNA levels did not decrease during IFNγ administration. There were no serious adverse reactions. Conclusions: IFNγ, which has attracted attention for its immunoenhancement, is worthy to be investigated as a therapy for chronic hepatitis C. However, the use of IFNγ in combination with IFNα, β or other antiviral agents may be more rewarding because of the possibly weak antiviral action of IFNγ.