Interleukin 2 (IL-2)

Interleukin 2 (IL-2) is a cytokine and key immunoregulatory protein with significant roles in immune system function, particularly in T cell biology and cancer immunotherapy. It stimulates the growth, proliferation, and differentiation of T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, and NK cells. IL-2 plays a dual role: it can have both immunostimulatory effects—enhancing immune responses—and immunoinhibitory effects—supporting regulatory mechanisms to prevent autoimmunity or excessive inflammation depending on context and target cell type.

Other names

IL2

Stimulates the growth, proliferation, and differentiation of T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, and NK cells by binding to the IL-2 receptor and activating intracellular signaling pathways.