Interleukin 3 Receptor alpha chain

IL3RA (CD123) is a member of the immunoglobulin superfamily that is expressed on hematopoietic progenitors, basophils, mast cells, and megakaryocytes. This transmembrane glycoprotein can bind IL3 with low affinity but cannot transduce signals without association with additional protein partners. CD123 can complex with either common beta chain (CDw131) or the IL3RB chain to form high affinity heterodimeric IL3 receptors. CDw131 can complex with the Alpha subunits of the mouse IL3R, IL5R and GMCSFR to form high affinity receptors, while the IL3RB subunit is specific for IL3 but binds with low affinity. IL3 binding to the receptor complex can induce proliferation and differentiation of hematopoietic cells. It is present in Hematopoietic progenitors, basophils, mast cells and megakaryocytes.