IL-21 Protein (Gst Tag) (recombinant rat)

Sequence: His18-Ser146. Fusion tag: N-Gst Endotoxin: < 10 EU per mg of the protein as determined by the LAL method Observed Molecular Mass: 45 kDa. Protein function: IL-21 belongs to the IL-15/IL-21 family. It is a cytokine with immunoregulatory activity. Cytokines are proteinaceous signaling compounds that are major mediators of the immune response. They control many different cellular functions including proliferation, differentiation, and cell survival/apoptosis but are also involved in several pathophysiological processes including viral infections and autoimmune diseases. Cytokines are synthesized under various stimuli by a variety of cells of both the innate (monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells) and adaptive (T- and B-cells) immune systems. IL-21 is expressed in activated CD4-positive T-cells but not in CD8-positive T-cells, B-cells, or monocytes. It may promote the transition between innate and adaptive immunity. IL-21 has been tried as a therapy for alleviating allergic responses. It can significantly decrease pro-inflammatory cytokines produced by T cells in addition to decreasing IgE levels in a mouse model for rhinitis (nasal passage inflammation). Protein function: Cytokine with immunoregulatory activity. May promote the transition between innate and adaptive immunity. Induces the production of IgG(1) and IgG(3) in B-cells. Implicated in the generation and maintenance of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells and the formation of germinal-centers. Together with IL6, control the early generation of Tfh cells and are critical for an effective antibody response to acute viral infection. May play a role in proliferation and maturation of natural killer (NK) cells in synergy with IL15. May regulate proliferation of mature B- and T-cells in response to activating stimuli. In synergy with IL15 and IL18 stimulates interferon gamma production in T-cells and NK cells. During T-cell mediated immune response may inhibit dendritic cells (DC) activation and maturation. [The UniProt Consortium]