Role(s) of Interleukin 2

By

Shoba Satkuru

MSc Biomedical Immunology

Properties of Interleukin 2

Source- Mainly by activated T-cells expressing CD4

surface Ag

Structure- 133 amino acids -15.4kDa in

weight

Genetic Structure Contains 4 exons Synthesis regulated at level of

transcription Receptors Mediated by membrane receptors 3 types: High Affinity

Intermediate Affinity Gamma Subunits

Biological Activities and Functions

Stimulates T cell proliferation Stimulates B cell growth/differentiation Generates Lymphokine activated killer cells

(LAK cells) Activates macrophages Stimulates T cells to produce other

cytokines Stimulates proliferation of oligodendrocytes

Clinical Use & Significance Transgenic animals, knock-out and

antisense studies Anti-tumor activity Adoptive Immunotherapy Treatment of cellular immunodeficiency

diseases