IL18RAP
Description
The IL18RAP (interleukin 18 receptor accessory protein) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 2.
IL18RAP is a human gene encoding an accessory subunit of the IL-18 receptor, which is involved in the binding of IL-18. This protein enhances the IL-18 binding activity of IL18R1, another subunit of the IL-18 receptor. Together, IL18R1 and IL18RAP are essential for the activation of NF-κB and MAPK8 (JNK) in response to IL-18. Variants in IL18RAP have been associated with an increased risk of celiac disease.
The IL18RAP protein does not bind IL-18 directly but plays a critical role in transmitting signals from the IL-18 receptor complex. This signaling leads to activation of NF-kappa-B and JNK, both essential pathways for immune responses. Evidence suggests IL18RAP may also be involved in the production of interferon gamma (IFNG) by T-helper 1 (Th1) cells, another important aspect of immune regulation.
IL18RAP is also known as ACPL, CD218b, CDw218b, IL-18R-beta, IL-18RAcP, IL-18Rbeta, IL-1R-7, IL-1R7, IL-1RAcPL, IL18RB.