IRAK4

IRAK4 (Interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the IRAK4 gene. It is a member of the interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase protein family. This protein is essential for the activation of Toll-like receptor (TLR) and Interleukin 1 receptor (IL1R) signaling pathways. As such, it is an important mediator in the innate immune response against bacterial and fungal pathogens. It is a kinase that activates NF-kappaB in both the TLR and IL1R signaling pathways. It is a central player in the regulation of innate immunity.

Function[edit | edit source]

IRAK4 is a kinase, a type of protein that adds a phosphate group to other proteins to turn them on or off. It is part of the signal transduction pathway for the innate immune system, which is the body's first line of defense against infection. When a pathogen is detected, the innate immune system triggers an inflammatory response to help fight off the infection. IRAK4 plays a key role in this process by helping to activate the proteins that trigger inflammation.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations in the IRAK4 gene can lead to IRAK4 deficiency, a condition that impairs the body's immune response to certain bacteria and fungi. People with IRAK4 deficiency are prone to recurrent infections, particularly from certain types of bacteria that cause pneumonia, sinusitis, and other serious infections.

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

IRAK4 at the National Center for Biotechnology Information

IRAK4 Resources
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