Common gamma-chain cytokine receptor subunit (γc (also known as CD132 or IL-2Rγ))

The common gamma-chain cytokine receptor subunit is a shared component of several key interleukin receptors—specifically those for interleukin 2 (IL‑2), IL‑4, IL‑7, IL‑9, IL‑15, and IL‑21. Also known as CD132 or IL–2Rγ, it forms part of heterodimeric or heterotrimeric complexes with other “private” alpha/beta chains unique to each cytokine’s receptor system. The γc subunit is essential for signal transduction via these receptors; upon ligand binding it recruits Janus kinases (primarily JAK3), leading to activation of STAT transcription factors that drive gene expression programs critical for lymphocyte development, differentiation, survival, and function across all major branches of the adaptive immune system. Deficiency or dysfunction results in profound immunodeficiency syndromes such as X-linked SCID due to failure of T-cell and NK-cell development.

Other names

Common gamma chainγcCD132Interleukin 2 receptor subunit gammaIL-2Rγ

Drugs that target this pathway typically act by blocking the interaction between specific interleukins (e.g., IL‑2, IL‑4) and their receptors containing the common gamma-chain, thereby inhibiting downstream JAK/STAT signaling pathways involved in immune cell activation and proliferation.