Interleukin-28 receptor

Interleukin-28 receptor (also known as IL-28R) is a type of protein that in humans is encoded by the IL28RA gene. It is a component of the cytokine receptor family, which plays a crucial role in the immune system.

Structure

The IL-28R is a heterodimeric cytokine receptor that is composed of two subunits: the IL-28Rα chain and the IL-10Rβ chain. The IL-28Rα chain is unique to the IL-28R, while the IL-10Rβ chain is shared with other members of the interleukin-10 receptor family.

Function

The primary function of the IL-28R is to mediate the biological effects of interleukin-28 (IL-28). IL-28, also known as interferon lambda (IFN-λ), is a type of interferon that is involved in the immune response to viral infections. When IL-28 binds to the IL-28R, it triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling events that ultimately lead to the expression of genes involved in antiviral defense.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the function of the IL-28R have been implicated in a variety of diseases. For example, genetic variations in the IL28RA gene have been associated with differential responses to treatment for hepatitis C virus infection. In addition, abnormal expression of the IL-28R has been observed in certain types of cancer, suggesting a potential role in tumorigenesis.

See also

• Interleukin-28
• Interleukin-10 receptor
• Cytokine receptor
• Immune system
• Hepatitis C