IL-11 R alpha: Proteins and Enzymes

IL-11 Ra (Interleukin-11 receptor alpha) is a widely expressed transmembrane protein that associates with gp130 to form a functional receptor complex for the cytokine IL-11. gp130 also functions as a subunit in the receptors for Cardiotrophin-1, CNTF, IL-6, IL-27, IL-31, LIF, and Oncostatin M. IL-11 Ra plays a role in female reproduction and the survival of oligodendrocytes and colonic epithelial cells. It enhances osteoclast differentiation and bone remodeling but inhibits adipocyte differentiation. Soluble IL-11 Ra confers IL-11 responsiveness to cells expressing gp130, while in cells expressing transmembrane IL-11 Ra and gp130, soluble IL-11 Ra acts as an IL-11 antagonist.