[Imunofan: new-generation synthetic peptide agent]

Abstract

The paper reviews the development, mode of action and field of application of synthetic regulatory peptides in the pathogenetic and immunocorrective therapy of infectious and noninfectious diseases. Great progress has been made in designing new-generation small regulatory peptides by modifying the sequence of amino acid residues in the active fragments of natural hormones to change their biological activity and therapeutic properties. The original hexapeptide Arg-alpha-Asp-Lys-Val-Tyr-Arg has been designed by chemically modifying the thymic hormone Thymopoietin in positions 32-37. The agent has been called Immunofan. It is manufactured in ampoules containing 1 ml of 0.005% sterile solution for subcutaneous and intramuscular injections. The trials of Immunofan have demonstrated that it is able to restore cell immunity, the oxygen-dependent neutrophilic bactericidal system and antiviral antibody production. It decreases the levels of inflammatory mediators, such as TNF and IL-6, and activates the redox system. Included into the complex therapy of patients with cancer diseases, Immunofan enhances the body's reserve capacity to inactivate free radicals and oxidants, substantially shortens radiation and toxic reactions. Its use ensures the continuum of chemoradiotherapy. Used in the complex therapy for chronic infections (brucellosis, hepatitis B and C, opportunistic infections), Immunofan enhances antiviral and antibacterial immunity, shortens the manifestation of clinical symptoms and major syndromes of diseases.