Interleukin-2 receptor signaling: at the interface between tolerance and immunity

Immunity. 2010 Aug 27;33(2):153-65. doi: 10.1016/j.immuni.2010.08.004.

Abstract

Interleukin-2 receptor (IL-2R) signaling regulates tolerance and immunity. Here, we review recent work concerning the structure, signaling, and function of the IL-2R, emphasizing the contribution of IL-2 for T cell-dependent activity in vivo. IL-2R signaling influences two discrete aspects of immune responses by CD8(+) T cells, terminal differentiation of effector cells in primary responses, and aspects of memory recall responses. IL-2 also delivers essential signals for thymic development of regulatory T (Treg) cells and later to promote their homeostasis and function. Each of these outcomes on T effector and Treg cells requires distinct amounts of IL-2R signaling, with low IL-2R signaling sufficient for many key aspects of Treg cells. Thus, tolerance is readily maintained and favored with limited IL-2.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Immune Tolerance*
  • Immunity*
  • Immunologic Memory
  • Receptors, Interleukin-2 / immunology*
  • Receptors, Interleukin-2 / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction*
  • T-Lymphocytes / cytology
  • T-Lymphocytes / immunology

Substances

  • Receptors, Interleukin-2