Interleukin-1 receptor–associated kinase 1 (IRAK1)

Interleukin-1 receptor–associated kinase 1 (IRAK1) is a cytoplasmic serine/threonine kinase crucial for signal transduction downstream of the interleukin-1 receptor and most toll-like receptors in immune cells[1][2][3]. It acts as a key modulator of both innate and adaptive immune responses by mediating the activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases, leading to the expression of inflammatory cytokines. IRAK1 is essential for mounting effective antibacterial and antiviral defenses, but dysregulation contributes to inflammatory diseases, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. IRAK1 contains a death domain, a ProST domain, and a kinase domain, and interacts with adaptor proteins such as MyD88 and TRAF6 within the “myddosome” signaling complex[1][4][6]. It is a therapeutic target under active investigation for inflammatory diseases and cancer, but selective clinical inhibitors are not yet available[2].

Other names

IRAK-1Interleukin-1 receptor associated kinase 1IRAKEC 2.7.11.1 (Enzyme Commission number)

Inhibition of IRAK1 blocks TLR and IL-1R signaling cascades. Prevents downstream activation of NF-κB and MAPK pathways. Reduces production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Modulates immune cell activation and survival[2][6][1]