Untangling the complex web of IL-4- and IL-13-mediated signaling pathways.
Unraveling the exact signaling events mediating the distinct functions of the T cell-derived cytokines interleukin-4 (IL-4) and IL-13 has been challenging because they are structurally similar and share a functional signaling receptor chain. A study now proposes a potential molecular mechanism to explain the functional differences between IL-4 and IL-13 that involves the ability of IL-4, but not IL-13, to effectively activate the insulin receptor substrate-2 (IRS-2) signaling cascade through binding to its receptor. A better understanding of the interactions of IL-4 and IL-13 with their cognate receptors may facilitate the development of therapies without unintended side effects.
Wills-Karp
Marsha
M
Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA. wildc7@cchmc.org
Finkelman
Fred D
FD
D000818:Animals; D006801:Humans; D055504:Insulin Receptor Substrate Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D018793:Interleukin-13 / Q000378:metabolism*; D015847:Interleukin-4 / Q000378:metabolism*; D015398:Signal Transduction
C526297:IRS2 protein, human; D055504:Insulin Receptor Substrate Proteins; D018793:Interleukin-13; D015847:Interleukin-4