TREATMENT OF DISORDERS ASSOCIATED WITH NATURAL KILLER T CELLS

摘要

The invention relates to methods and compositions useful in the treatment of autoimmune disorders or diseases as well as disorders or diseases having an autoimmune component such as AIDS. Preferred methods and compositions of the invention comprise use of a Beta Galactosyl Ceramide compound to treat a mammal suffering from or susceptible to such disorders. Methods and compositions of the invention can reduce NKT cells effectively in vivo in the substantial absence of undesired bystander events (cellular activation, cytokine production, systemic inflammation, etc). Methods and compositions of the invention can also reduce tumor size or ability to metastasize.