Interleukin-15 receptor (IL-15R)

The **Interleukin-15 receptor (IL-15R)** is a heterotrimeric cell-surface receptor essential for the biological activity of the cytokine interleukin-15 (IL-15) and plays a critical role in the development, survival, and activation of lymphocytes, particularly NK cells and memory CD8+ T cells[1][3][4]. The receptor complex consists of three subunits: a unique, high-affinity IL-15 receptor alpha (IL-15Rα), a shared beta chain (IL-2/15Rβ, also part of the IL-2 receptor), and the common gamma chain (γc, shared by several cytokine receptors)[1][3]. The IL-15Rα subunit binds IL-15 with exceptionally high affinity, often presenting IL-15 in trans to cells expressing β and γ chains, thereby enabling potent signaling[1][3][4]. Activation of the IL-15 receptor complex leads to downstream signaling through JAK kinases and STAT proteins, as well as pathways such as PI3K/Akt and MAPK, ultimately promoting immune cell proliferation, survival, and anti-apoptotic pathways[1][6][3]. Aberrant IL-15R signaling is implicated in immune dysregulation, cancer, inflammation, and other diseases, making it a significant therapeutic target for both immune-activating and immunosuppressive strategies[3][4].

Other names

IL-15RIL-15 receptorIL15 receptorInterleukin-15 receptor complexInterleukin-15 receptor subunit alpha (IL15RA)IL2/15 receptor beta chain (IL2RB)Common gamma chain (γc, IL2RG)

Antagonism/blockade of cytokine signaling, Promotion of immune cell activation (via agonists), Blockade of lymphocyte proliferation and survival (via antagonists)