Cytokine receptor common gamma chain (IL-2 receptor subunit gamma) (γc)

The cytokine receptor common gamma chain (γc), also known as IL-2 receptor subunit gamma, is a shared signaling subunit of receptors for the γc family cytokines including IL-2, IL-4, IL-7, IL-9, IL-15, and IL-21. It forms heterodimeric or heterotrimeric complexes with specific private receptor subunits (e.g., IL-2Rα/β, IL-4Rα, IL-7Rα, IL-9Rα, IL-21R) and is essential for immune cell development, homeostasis, proliferation, differentiation, and function across T cells, B cells, NK cells, and innate lymphoid cells. Signaling occurs via associated JAK kinases (primarily JAK1 and JAK3), activating STAT proteins, MAPK, PI3K-Akt, and mTOR pathways to regulate gene expression, including Myc-driven metabolic reprogramming and SOCS feedback inhibitors. Mutations in the IL2RG gene encoding γc cause X-linked severe combined immunodeficiency (XSCID).

Other names

common gamma chainIL-2 receptor gammaIL-2R gammaγ-chain