Interleukin 1 protects from cytosine arabinoside-induced alopecia in the rat model.

Protection from cytosine arabinoside-induced alopecia by ImuVert has recently been reported in a rat model. ImuVert, a biologic response modifier, is capable of activating mononuclear cells causing release of various cytokines. In the present study, using the young rat model, recombinant human IL 1 beta produced excellent protection from cytosine arabinoside-induced alopecia. Mouse recombinant tumor necrosis factor gave definite but modest protection whereas human tumor necrosis factor gave none. It is concluded that the protection from alopecia by ImuVert is mediated by cytokines, primarily IL 1.