Interferon lambda receptor complex (IFNLR) (IFNLR)

The Interferon lambda receptor complex is a heterodimeric receptor composed of the specific subunit Interferon lambda receptor 1 (IFNLR1, also known as IL-28RA) and the shared Interleukin-10 receptor subunit beta (IL-10R2 or IL10RB) [1, 4]. It serves as the primary mediator for Type III interferons (IFN-λ1, λ2, λ3, and λ4), which are critical for antiviral defense at mucosal surfaces [2, 12]. Unlike the ubiquitous Type I interferon receptor, the expression of IFNLR1 is largely restricted to epithelial cells in the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and reproductive tracts, as well as specific immune cell subsets like neutrophils and B cells [1, 8]. This restricted expression pattern allows for localized immune responses with significantly reduced systemic side effects compared to Type I interferons [12, 21]. Upon activation, the receptor triggers the JAK-STAT signaling pathway via JAK1 and TYK2, leading to the induction of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) that inhibit viral replication and modulate inflammatory responses [6, 18]. The receptor is a key therapeutic target for chronic viral infections such as Hepatitis C and D, and is being investigated for roles in oncology and autoimmune disorders [5, 20].

Other names

IFN-lambda receptorIL-28 receptorType III interferon receptorIFNLR1/IL10RB complexIL-28RA/IL-10RB complexInterferon lambda receptor 1/Interleukin-10 receptor subunit beta

Agonism of the receptor complex activates the JAK-STAT signaling pathway (specifically JAK1 and TYK2), leading to the phosphorylation of STAT1 and STAT2 and the subsequent induction of interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs) that provide antiviral and antiproliferative effects [1, 18].