IL-9 is a member of the type I cytokine receptor family. The IL-9 receptor (IL-9R) is a protein that specifically mediates the biological effects of IL-9. The receptor is composed of two subunits: the IL-9R alpha subunit and the common gamma chain (γc). The binding of IL-9 to its receptor leads to the activation of various signaling pathways, including the JAK/STAT pathway, which is crucial for transmitting signals from the cell surface to the nucleus .
Recombinant IL-9 refers to IL-9 that is produced through recombinant DNA technology. This involves inserting the gene encoding IL-9 into a host cell, such as bacteria or yeast, which then produces the cytokine. Recombinant IL-9 is used in research to study its effects on various cell types and to understand its role in diseases such as asthma and allergies .
Recombinant rat IL-9 is particularly useful in research involving rodent models. It is used to study the effects of IL-9 on rat immune cells and to investigate the potential therapeutic applications of IL-9 in treating diseases. For example, recombinant rat IL-9 can be used to study its role in mast cell maturation and the enhancement of IgE production by B cells .