Type II interleukin-4 receptor (Type II IL-4R)

The **type II interleukin-4 receptor** is a heterodimeric cytokine receptor complex composed of the IL-4 receptor alpha subunit (IL-4Rα) and the interleukin-13 receptor alpha 1 subunit (IL-13Rα1)[1][2][3][5]. It is distinct from the type I IL-4 receptor, which features the common gamma chain instead of IL-13Rα1. The type II IL-4 receptor mediates the biological effects of both IL-4 and IL-13, playing a central role in type 2 immune responses such as promoting resistance to parasites, allergic inflammation, airway hyperreactivity, and fibrosis[2][4][6]. Ligand binding stimulates STAT6 signaling, leading to gene expression changes in a variety of cell types except mature T cells[3][4]. It is a validated therapeutic target, especially for diseases like asthma and atopic dermatitis, as exemplified by the monoclonal antibody dupilumab, which inhibits both IL-4 and IL-13 signaling through this receptor[2][3]. Genetic polymorphisms affecting the receptor are also implicated in atopy and asthma susceptibility[5]. Safety risks in therapy include increased risk of certain infections and possible immune dysregulation[3][6].

Other names

Type II IL-4 receptorIL-4R type IIInterleukin-4 receptor type IIIL-4Rα/IL-13Rα1 heterodimer

Inhibition of IL-4/IL-13 signaling (for antagonists like dupilumab); Blockade of STAT6 activation (downstream signaling inhibition)