METHODS AND COMPOSITIONS FOR MODULATING RESPONSIVENESS TO CORTICOSTEROIDS

摘要

Method for modulating responsiveness to corticosteroids in a subject are provided. In the method of the invention, an agent which antagonizes a target that regulates production of IFN- gamma in the subject is administered to the subject in combination with a corticosteroid such that responsiveness of the subject to the corticosteroid is modulated as compared to when a corticosteroid alone is administered to the subject. In one embodiment, the agent is an IL-18 antagonist. In another embodiment, the agent is an interleukin-12 (IL-12) antagonist. In yet another embodiment, the agent is an NK cell antagonist. In a preferred embodiment, the agent is an inhibitor of a caspase family protease, preferably an ICE inhibitor. In another preferred embodiment, the agent is an anti-IL-12 monoclonal antibody. In yet another preferred embodiment, the agent is an anti-asialo-GM1 antibody or an NK1.1 antibody. Other preferred agents include phosphodiesterase IV inhibitors and beta-2 agonists. The methods of the invention can be used in the treatment of a variety of inflammatory and immunological diseases and disorders. Pharmaceutical compositions comprising an agent which antagonizes a target that regulates production of IFN- gamma in a subject, a corticosteroid and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier are also provided. A preferred composition comprises an ICE inhibitor, a corticosteroid and a pharmaceuticaly acceptable carrier.