Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin (TSLP) is a cytokine protein that plays a crucial role in the immune system. It is primarily produced by epithelial cells and is involved in the maturation of T cells and the activation of antigen-presenting cells . The TSLP receptor (TSLPR) is a key component in the signaling pathway of TSLP, forming a heterodimeric complex with the interleukin-7 receptor alpha chain (IL-7Rα) to mediate its effects .
The TSLP receptor is a member of the hemopoietin receptor family and is composed of two subunits: the TSLP receptor chain and the IL-7Rα chain . When TSLP binds to this receptor complex, it triggers the phosphorylation of STAT5, leading to the activation of various transcription factors that promote immune responses .
The human recombinant TSLP receptor produced in Sf9 cells is a significant advancement in biotechnology. Sf9 cells, derived from the fall armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda, are commonly used in the baculovirus expression system for producing recombinant proteins . This system allows for high-level expression and proper folding of complex proteins, making it ideal for producing functional TSLP receptors.
TSLP and its receptor are involved in various physiological and pathological processes. They play a critical role in the development and progression of allergic diseases, such as asthma and eczema, by promoting type 2 immune responses . TSLP is also implicated in chronic inflammatory diseases and certain cancers .