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IL-15

Function

Cytokine that stimulates the proliferation of T-lymphocytes (PubMed:8178155). Stimulation by IL15 requires interaction of IL15 with components of the IL2 receptor, including IL2RB and probably IL2RG but not IL2RA (PubMed:8178155). In neutrophils, stimulates phagocytosis probably by signaling through the IL15 receptor, composed of the subunits IL15RA, IL2RB and IL2RG, which results in kinase SYK activation (PubMed:15123770).

Sequence similarities

Belongs to the IL-15/IL-21 family.

Tissue specificity

Most abundant in placenta and skeletal muscle. It is also detected in the heart, lung, liver and kidney. IL15-S21AA is preferentially expressed in tissues such as testis and thymus.

Cellular localization

  • Isoform IL15-S48AA
  • Secreted
  • Isoform IL15-S21AA
  • Cytoplasm
  • Nucleus
  • IL15-S21AA is not secreted, but rather is stored intracellularly, appearing in the nucleus and cytoplasmic components.

Alternative names

  • Interleukin-15
  • IL-15
  • IL15

Target type

Proteins

Primary research area

Immunology & Infectious Disease

Other research areas

  • Immuno-oncology

Molecular weight

18086Da