IL31RA gene

IL31RA (Interleukin 31 Receptor A) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 5q11.2. An important paralog of this gene is IL6ST. Several alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding different isoforms have been identified for the IL31RA gene. The signaling pathways used include cytokine signaling in the immune system and the so-called interleukin-6 family signaling.

The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the type I cytokine receptor family. The IL31RA receptor with homology to gp130 is expressed on monocytes (Ghilardi N et al. 2002). It is involved in IL-31 signaling via the activation of STAT-3 and STAT-5.

Nemolizumab is a monoclonal antibody that specifically blocks the IL-31 receptor. The antibody thus blocks the signal transmission of this cytokine, which plays a key role in atopic dermatitis and prurigo nodularis. IL-31 is significantly involved in itching, dermatitis and impairment of the skin barrier.

The receptor functions either as a monomer or as part of a receptor complex with the oncostatin M receptor (OSMR). Furthermore, this receptor plays a role in skin immunity (Dillon SR et al. 2004). Mediates IL31-induced itching, probably in dependence on the cation channels TRPA1 (acronym for "transient receptor potential cation channel, subfamily A, member 1") and TRPV1 (transient receptor potential cation channel of subfamily V/V = vanilloid).

Diseases associated with IL31RA include primary cutaneous amyloidosis.

1. Dillon SR et al (2004) Interleukin 31, a cytokine produced by activated T cells, induces dermatitis in mice. Nat Immunol 5:752-60.
2. Dreuw A et al (2004) Characterization of the signaling capacities of the novel gp130-like cytokine receptor. J Biol Chem 279:36112-36120.
3. Ghilardi N et al. (2002) A novel type I cytokine receptor is expressed on monocytes, signals proliferation, and activates STAT-3 and STAT-5. J Biol Chem 277:16831-1686.