Common beta chain of cytokine receptors (βc (or CD131))

The common beta chain (βc, CD131) is a shared signaling subunit used by the receptors for granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin-3 (IL-3), and interleukin-5 (IL-5)[3][7]. These cytokines have unique alpha subunits that confer ligand specificity, but all three receptors rely on the βc for high-affinity binding and intracellular signaling[7]. The βc is required for recruiting intracellular signaling molecules and activating pathways driving survival, proliferation, and differentiation of various hematopoietic and immune cells (e.g., neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils, monocytes, and early blood progenitors)[3][7]. Dysregulation of βc signaling is implicated in inflammatory diseases, asthma, and certain cancers[3]. Drugs targeting associated cytokines or the βc pathway are under investigation for inflammatory and hematological disorders.

Other names

CD131Common β-subunitShared β chainIL3RB (gene symbol)Cytokine receptor common subunit beta

Drugs typically inhibit signaling via ligand blockade (e.g., anti-GM-CSF or anti-IL-5 agents) or receptor blockade, thereby reducing downstream activation of inflammatory or proliferative responses