Human Interleukin 7 Receptor (IL7R) Protein

Background

The interleukin-7 receptor (IL7R) is a critical component of immune system regulation, playing a major role in the development, survival, and homeostasis of T cells and, to a lesser extent, B cells. It is encoded by the IL7R gene and consists of two distinct subunits: IL-7Rα (CD127), which is unique to the IL-7 receptor, and γc (CD132), a common gamma chain shared with other cytokine receptors such as those for IL-2, IL-4, IL-9, IL-15, and IL-21. IL-7, the ligand for IL7R, is an essential cytokine that provides survival signals to developing lymphocytes and regulates their function, influencing T cell diversity, immune tolerance, and immune responsiveness. The IL7R signaling pathway has profound effects on immune system homeostasis, enabling it to counteract immune deficiencies, support immune recovery after depletion, and maintain immune memory. Dysregulation of IL7R, however, is implicated in a range of conditions, including severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID), autoimmune diseases, and certain cancers, especially T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The receptor’s pivotal role in lymphocyte biology makes it a significant target for immunological therapies and interventions.