IL2RB

The interleukin 2 receptor, which is involved in T cell-mediated immune responses, is present in 3 forms with respect to ability to bind interleukin 2. The low affinity form is a monomer of the alpha subunit (also called CD25) and is not involved in signal transduction. The intermediate affinity form consists of a gamma/beta subunit heterodimer, while the high affinity form consists of an alpha/beta/gamma subunit heterotrimer. Both the intermediate and high affinity forms of the receptor are involved in receptor-mediated endocytosis and transduction of mitogenic signals from interleukin 2. The protein encoded by this gene represents the beta subunit and is a type I membrane protein.

This protein also forms one of the three subunits of the IL-15 receptor.

Activation of the receptor increases proliferation of CD8+ effector T cells.

IL2RB has been shown to interact with:

• CISH,
• HGS,
• Janus kinase 1, and
• SHC1.

IL2RB-mediated interleukin-15 (IL-15) signaling has been implicated in the pathogenesis of celiac disease. Increased IL-15 signaling promotes activation of intraepithelial lymphocytes, epithelial injury, and persistent intestinal inflammation, including in some patients who remain symptomatic despite adherence to a gluten-free diet.