Interleukin-29, IL-29, IFN-Lambda 1, IFN-Lambda 1, Cytokine ZCYTO21, IL29, IFNL1, ZCYTO21.
Interleukin-29 (IL-29), also known as interferon-lambda 1 (IFN-λ1), belongs to the type III interferon family. While distantly related to type I interferons (IFNs) and the IL-10 family, IL-29 shares functional similarities with type I IFNs. Its expression is induced by viral infection, and it binds to a heterodimeric receptor composed of IL-10 receptor beta (IL10RB) and IL-28 receptor alpha. IL-29 exhibits antiviral, antiproliferative, and antitumor activities. Though similar to type I IFNs, IL-29 generally exhibits less potency and affects a narrower range of cell lines. Notably, the genes encoding IFN-lambda 1, IFN-lambda 2, and IFN-lambda3 are clustered on human chromosome 19. IL-29 uniquely induces the expression of CXC chemokine mRNAs lacking the ELR motif (ELR(-)) in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells, independent of IFN-gamma. Additionally, IL-29 can generate tolerogenic dendritic cells (DCs), potentially counteracting IFN-beta functions. Produced in response to viral infection, IL-29 activates both monocytes and macrophages, leading to the production of a specific set of cytokines. This suggests a key role for IL-29 in initiating innate immune responses at the site of viral infection. The antiviral and antiproliferative functions of IFN-Lambda 1 rely on specific tyrosine residues within the IFN-Lambda 2 receptor.
Interleukin-29, IL-29, IFN-Lambda 1, IFN-Lambda 1, Cytokine ZCYTO21, IL29, IFNL1, ZCYTO21.
IL-29 was discovered as part of the interferon lambda family, which includes IL-28A, IL-28B, and IL-29. These cytokines are structurally related to both type I interferons and the interleukin-10 family . IL-29 is produced by various cells, including monocytes and dendritic cells, in response to viral infections and stimulation by toll-like receptor ligands .
IL-29 exerts its biological effects through a receptor complex composed of IL-28Rα and IL-10Rβ. This receptor is expressed on most non-hematopoietic cells . The primary function of IL-29 is to induce antiviral responses. It upregulates the expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules on the cell surface and stimulates the production of antiviral proteins such as protein kinase R (PKR), myxovirus resistance protein A (MxA), and 2’,5’-oligoadenylate synthetase (2’,5’-OAS) .
Recombinant human IL-29 is produced using various expression systems, including human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293 cells . The recombinant protein is typically purified to high levels of purity, often exceeding 95% . It is used in research to study its antiviral properties and potential therapeutic applications.
IL-29 has shown promise in various research areas, particularly in antiviral therapies. Its ability to induce a potent antiviral state in cells makes it a valuable tool for studying viral infections and developing new treatments . Additionally, IL-29’s role in modulating immune responses has implications for autoimmune diseases and cancer research .