Interleukin-15 receptor

Interleukin-15 receptor (IL-15R) is a type of protein that is found on the surface of certain cells in the human body. It is part of the cytokine receptor family, which includes a variety of receptors that respond to different cytokines. The IL-15R specifically responds to interleukin-15 (IL-15), a cytokine that plays a crucial role in the immune response.

Structure

The IL-15R is a heterotrimeric protein complex that consists of three different subunits: IL-15Rα, IL-2/15Rβ, and γc. The IL-15Rα subunit is unique to the IL-15R, while the IL-2/15Rβ and γc subunits are shared with the interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R).

Function

The primary function of the IL-15R is to bind to IL-15 and initiate a cellular response. This is achieved through the activation of the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, a key pathway in the immune response. The binding of IL-15 to the IL-15R leads to the activation of Janus kinase (JAK) proteins, which in turn activate Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins. This results in the transcription of genes that are involved in cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival.

Role in the Immune System

The IL-15R plays a crucial role in the immune system. It is expressed on a variety of immune cells, including natural killer (NK) cells, T cells, and B cells. By binding to IL-15, the IL-15R promotes the proliferation and survival of these cells, thereby enhancing the immune response.

In addition to its role in the immune response, the IL-15R has also been implicated in a number of diseases, including autoimmune diseases, cancer, and infectious diseases. As such, it is a potential target for therapeutic interventions.

See Also

• Interleukin-15
• Cytokine receptor
• JAK-STAT signaling pathway