Interleukin 15 Receptor Agonism

Interleukin-15 (IL-15) receptor agonism refers to the activation of the IL-15 receptor complex, a key mechanism for stimulating immune responses, particularly those involving natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T cells. IL-15 is a cytokine that plays a crucial role in the development, survival, and function of these lymphocytes. The IL-15 receptor is a heterotrimeric complex composed of IL-2/IL-15Rβ chain (CD122), Common γ chain (γc or CD132), and unique high-affinity α subunit (IL‑15Rα). Agonism of the IL-15 receptor results in proliferation of NK cells & memory phenotype CD8+ T cells, enhanced cytotoxic activity against tumor or infected targets, and maintenance/homeostasis of memory T cell populations. Several engineered molecules act as agonists at this target, including recombinant IL-15 proteins, superagonist complexes, and fusion proteins. Unlike interleukin 2, interleukin 15 preferentially expands effector/memory subsets without inducing activation-induced cell death or significant expansion of regulatory T cells.

Other names

IL-15 receptor agonismIL15R agonismInterleukin-15 receptor activation

Activation of the IL-15 receptor complex, leading to downstream signaling cascades including JAK/STAT, PI3K/Akt, and MAPK pathways, resulting in proliferation, survival, and enhanced cytotoxic activity of NK cells and CD8+ T cells.