Produced by Vical Inc., Leuvectin is a DNA/Lipid complex that contains a plasmid encoding the human IL-2 gene.  Systemic IL-2 therapy is the only FDA approved treatment for metastatic RCC, however systemic administrations are accompanied by significant toxicity.  By directly injecting leuvectin into the tumor site, toxicity of systemic IL-2 administration is circumvented.  In a phase II study, increased IL-2 production and CD8+ infiltration were detected in patients administered leuvectin.
 
 
 

Below left are pictures of a RCC patient before (A) and 16 weeks after (B) treatment with Leuvectin.
Below right are pictures of a hepatic metastasis of melanoma before (A) and 20 weeks after (B) treatment with Leuvectin.

Galanis et al.: Immunotherapy of Advanced Malignancy by Direct Gene Transfer of an Interleukin-2 DNA/DMRIE/DOPE Lipid Complex: Phase I/II Experience.  Journal of Clinical Oncology, 17: 3313-3323, 1999.