Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a cytokine that plays a crucial role in the immune system by promoting the proliferation and maintenance of natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ T cells. It is a member of the four α-helix bundle cytokine family and shares many biological properties with interleukin-2 (IL-2). IL-15 is produced by various cell types, including epithelial cells, monocytes, muscle cells, and placenta cells .
IL-15 is a potent lymphoid cell growth factor. It stimulates the proliferation of activated T cells and promotes the generation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Additionally, IL-15 induces the generation, proliferation, and activation of NK cells and supports B cell growth and immunoglobulin production. It is also essential for the maintenance of CD8+ memory T cells .
IL-15 signals through a unique receptor complex that includes the IL-15 receptor α-chain (IL-15Rα) and shares the β- and γ-chains with the IL-2 receptor. This receptor complex allows IL-15 to exert its effects on target cells .
Recombinant mouse IL-15 is a laboratory-produced version of the natural cytokine, optimized for use in cell culture, differentiation studies, and functional assays. It is commonly used in research to activate and expand NK and NKT cells, differentiate NK cells from purified CD34+ cells, and expand and activate T cells .
Recombinant mouse IL-15 has several applications in both research and therapeutic contexts: