Interleukin 13 receptor, alpha 1

Interleukin 13 receptor, alpha 1 (also known as IL13RA1) is a type of protein that in humans is encoded by the IL13RA1 gene. This receptor is a subunit of the interleukin 13 receptor complex, which plays a crucial role in the immune system.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The IL13RA1 gene is located on the X chromosome (specifically, Xq24). The protein encoded by this gene is approximately 42-50 kilodaltons in size. It is a type I transmembrane protein and is expressed on the surface of various cell types, including B cells, monocytes, and eosinophils.

Function[edit | edit source]

IL13RA1 is part of the receptor complex for interleukin 13, a cytokine involved in immune response. When interleukin 13 binds to this receptor, it triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling events that can lead to the activation of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway, which plays a key role in immune response and inflammation.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Mutations in the IL13RA1 gene have been associated with various diseases, including hypereosinophilic syndrome and allergic asthma. In addition, the overexpression of IL13RA1 has been observed in several types of cancer, including glioblastoma and ovarian cancer, suggesting a potential role in tumor progression.