Recombinant Human IRF5 Protein Standard

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

IRF5 or Interferon Regulatory Factor 5 is a member of the IRF family of transcription factors. This protein weighs approximately 56 kDa and is expressed in cells of the immune system including B cells dendritic cells and macrophages. IRF5 plays an important role in regulating the transcription of interferon-stimulated genes following a viral infection. It acts by binding to specific DNA sequences initiating transcription processes that are important for the antiviral response.

Biological function summary

IRF5 influences the immune response through the regulation of cytokine production. It activates genes involved in producing pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6 which are important for clearing viral infections and activating immune cells. IRF5 does not usually form part of a protein complex but it interacts closely with TRAF6 and MyD88 for its activation. Its pivotal role in cytokine production highlights its importance in controlling inflammation.

Pathways

IRF5 is an important component of the Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling pathway and plays a role in the MyD88-dependent pathway. In this context IRF5 gets activated by TLRs interacting with MyD88 and TAK1 to enhance the transcription of important genes for immune response. It is also closely connected to the IRF3 protein which shares similar activation pathways and can similarly initiate an antiviral state.

Associated diseases and disorders

Defects or dysregulation in IRF5 function are linked to autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis. In SLE IRF5 influences autoantibody production contributing to disease development. It works alongside other regulatory proteins involved in autoimmunity including IFN-α and STAT4 which also play significant roles in modulating immune responses. Understanding IRF5's role in these conditions could present new opportunities for therapeutic interventions using IRF5 inhibitors.