IL-9

Interleukin-9 (IL-9) is a 14 kDa glycoprotein classified within the hematopoietin family, historically termed T-cell growth factor III and mast cell growth-enhancing factor. IL-9 is secreted predominantly by Th9 cells, a distinct T-helper lineage induced from Th2 precursors by IL-4 plus TGF-β, and also by group 2 innate lymphoid cells and mast cells. It signals via IL-9Rα coupled to the common gamma chain, engaging JAK1/JAK3-STAT5, STAT6 and STAT3. IL-9 promotes mast cell proliferation and IgE responses, enhances mucus secretion and goblet cell hyperplasia, and supports eosinophil survival, linking it to allergic airway inflammation, asthma and parasitic immunity. Emerging evidence also implicates IL-9 in antitumor immunity through its effects on mast cells and CD8+ T cells.