| 摘要 |
Method for modulating responsiveness to corticosteroids in a subject are provided. In the method of the invention, an agent which antagonizes a factor 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 interferon- gamma inducing factor (IGIF) antagonist. In another embodiment, the agent is an interleukin-12 (IL-12) 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. 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 factor 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 pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
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