Human Interleukin 12 Receptor Beta 1 (IL12Rb1) Protein

Background

Interleukin 12 receptor subunit beta 1 (IL12RB1) is a protein that serves as an integral component of the interleukin-12 receptor (IL-12R) complex, a receptor system critical for immune function. IL12RB1 is encoded by the IL12RB1 gene and is highly expressed in immune cells, primarily on T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and macrophages. It plays a central role in mediating immune responses, specifically by binding to the cytokines interleukin-12 (IL-12) and interleukin-23 (IL-23), which are essential for driving Th1-type immune responses and promoting cell-mediated immunity. Through this role, IL12RB1 is key in defending the body against intracellular pathogens such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis and certain viruses. The IL-12R complex comprises two main subunits: IL12RB1 and IL12RB2. IL12RB1 forms a binding receptor for both IL-12 and IL-23, and its expression level and function are vital for proper immune function. Genetic mutations in IL12RB1 are linked to immunodeficiency syndromes, as individuals with these mutations have impaired responses to IL-12 and IL-23, resulting in compromised resistance to infections. The receptor’s functionality is therefore critical for immune cell activation, proliferation, and differentiation, particularly within the adaptive immune response.