TCCR, also known as WSX-1 and IL-27 Ra, is a 96kD member of the type I group 2 cytokine receptor family.1-4 The extracellular region of human TCCR shares 63% aa identity with the extracellular domain of mouse IL-27 Ra.2, 3 TCCR is expressed in mast cells, endothelial cells, NK cells, macrophages, monocytes, B cells, dendritic cells, and native T cells.1, 2, 4, 5 As with many other class I cytokine receptor chains, IL-27 Ra heterodimerizes with gp130, the common receptor subunit of IL-6 family cytokines, to form a functional IL-27 receptor.6 IL-27 only binds to IL-27 Ra/WSX-1/TCCR and not the gp130 subunit.7 Studies using WSX-1 mice reveal that WSX-1 has the ability to suppress T cell hyperactivity during infection, and to mediate an inhibition of both type 1 and type 2 T cell immunity.4, 8, 9 In particular, WSX-1 is believed to induce IL-12 R on native T cells, predisposing them to a Th1 phenotype. This is offset by its ability to limit IL-12 (and TNF) production by macrophages, and its suppression of IFN-g production.
Intended for research use only. Not for use in human, therapeutic, or diagnostic applications.