Rat Leukemia Inhibitory Factor Receptor (LIFR) Protein

Background

The leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR), also known as the LIF receptor subunit alpha, is a component of a cytokine receptor complex responsible for mediating the effects of the leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). LIF is part of the interleukin-6 (IL-6) family of cytokines and is involved in various cellular processes, such as cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation, particularly in neuronal, hematopoietic, and reproductive cells. LIFR is encoded by the LIFR gene, located on chromosome 5p13, and is widely expressed across various tissues, including the placenta, brain, liver, and bone marrow. LIFR functions as a non-signaling receptor subunit and, upon binding to LIF, associates with the co-receptor gp130. Together, this receptor complex initiates intracellular signaling pathways that are central to immune responses, tissue repair, and neural development. LIFR is significant in embryonic development and stem cell maintenance, and dysregulation of LIFR signaling is associated with several diseases, such as inflammatory disorders, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases.