Interleukin-12 receptor (IL-12R)

Interleukin-12 receptor is a heterodimeric type I cytokine receptor composed of two subunits, IL-12Rβ1 and IL-12Rβ2, mainly expressed on T cells and natural killer cells. This receptor binds interleukin-12, a heterodimeric cytokine composed of p35 and p40 subunits, triggering activation of JAK2/TYK2 kinases and STAT4 signaling. IL-12 receptor engagement promotes Th1 differentiation, cytotoxic activity, and interferon-gamma production, playing a critical role in mediating the pro-inflammatory immune response and bridging innate and adaptive immunity. Dysregulation of this pathway is implicated in the pathogenesis of autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, cancer, and infection. Therapeutic agents targeting IL-12 or its shared p40 subunit have shown efficacy in certain inflammatory conditions but may carry risks of immune suppression and infections.

Other names

IL-12RIL-12Rβ1/β2 complexInterleukin 12 receptor beta 1Interleukin 12 receptor beta 2IL12RB1IL12RB2

Neutralization of IL-12/IL-23 p40 subunit, blocking IL-12 and IL-23 signaling Inhibition of Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation and associated inflammatory responses