IFN-α/β Receptor

IFN-α/β receptor is a type I IFN receptor which contains IFNAR1 and IFNAR2 two subunits. And IFNAR2 can form the heterodimeric receptor with IFNAR1, and binds to type I IFNs (such as IFN-α/-β). The association makes JAK1 and TYK2 form a functional signaling unit[1]. Upon activation by IFNs, IFNAR1 and IFNAR2 undergo a conformational change to promote a cascade of downstream signaling events. The signaling events includes the phosphorylation of Tyk2 and JAK1, STAT1 and STAT2, and the formation of the ISGF3 complex which consists of phosphorylated STAT1 and STAT2 and IRF9[2][3]. IFN-α/β receptor is expressed on peripheral blood B cells and monocytes, and mediates differentiation and activation of these cells[4].