Interleukin-12 receptor complex (IL-12R complex)

The Interleukin-12 receptor complex is a heterodimeric receptor comprising interleukin-12 receptor subunit beta-1 (IL12RB1) and subunit beta-2 (IL12RB2)[3][5][6]. This complex binds interleukin-12 with high affinity only when both subunits are co-expressed, thereby activating downstream signaling primarily via the JAK2/STAT4 pathway[3][4][6]. It is expressed on activated T cells and natural killer cells[2], mediating differentiation and proliferation of Th1 cells and NK cell function—key roles in cell-mediated immunity[2][4]. The complex also shares subunits with the interleukin-23 receptor, making it central to the regulation of Th1/Th17 responses and a target for therapeutic agents, notably in autoimmune and inflammatory diseases and cancer immunotherapy[1][2]. Targeting this receptor complex can modulate immune responses beneficially, but poses risks such as increased infection susceptibility and potential worsening of autoimmunity[2].

Other names

Interleukin-12 receptorIL-12 receptorIL-12RInterleukin-12 receptor beta-1/beta-2 complexIL12RB1/IL12RB2 complex

Blockade of IL-12/IL-23 signaling, Selective inhibition of Th1/Th17 pathways, Modulation of JAK-STAT pathway