Interleukin 31 (IL31)

Interleukin-31 (IL-31) is a cytokine with a four-helix bundle structure, which is preferentially produced by type 2 helper T cells (Th2). The structure of IL-31 places it in the IL-6 family of cytokines. IL-31 signals via a receptor complex that is composed of IL-31 receptor A (IL-31RA) and oncostatin M receptor subunits. These receptor subunits are expressed in activated monocytes and in unstimulated epithelial cells. IL-31 is believed to play a role in inflammation of the skin.

IL31, which is made principally by activated Th2-type T cells, interacts with a heterodimeric receptor consisting of IL31RA  and OSMR that is constitutively expressed on epithelial cells and keratinocytes. IL31 may be involved in the promotion of allergic skin disorders and in regulating other allergic diseases, such as asthma .