interferon lambda-3

Interferon lambda-3 is a **type III interferon cytokine**, encoded by the *IFNL3* gene (previously known as *IL28B*). It is part of the type III interferon (IFN-λ) family, which also includes IFNL1 and IFNL2. Interferon lambda-3 is produced in response to **viral infections** and activates cellular antiviral responses, particularly at mucosal barrier sites such as the respiratory and gastrointestinal tract. The cytokine exerts its effects by binding to a specific **heterodimeric receptor** composed of interleukin 10 receptor beta (IL10RB) and interferon lambda receptor 1 (IFNLR1). This receptor is highly expressed on epithelial cells. Upon binding, interferon lambda-3 triggers downstream signaling through the **JAK-STAT pathway**, leading to transcription of interferon-stimulated genes that confer a robust antiviral state. Compared to type I interferons, interferon lambda-3 induces a distinct and stronger set of antiviral and immunoregulatory genes in epithelial cells. Clinical studies and animal models suggest a potent role in defense against mucosal viral infections as well as immune modulation[1][2][4][5][8].

Other names

interferon-λ3IFN-λ3interleukin-28Binterleukin28Binterleukin 28B