IL-31 is a T cell cytokine that is preferentially produced by T helper type 2 cells. IL-31 signals through a heterodimeric receptor composed of the IL-31 receptor (IL-31R) and the oncostatin M receptor (OSM). This receptor complex recruits JAK1, JAK2, Stat1, Stat3 and Stat5 signaling pathways, as well as the PI3 kinase/AKT cascade. SHP-2 and Shc adapter molecules are also recruited and contribute to an increased activation of the MAP kinase pathway in response to IL-31. Overexpression of IL-31 in mice results in pruritus and skin dermatitis resembling human atopic dermatitis (AD). Comparisons between skin from patients with AD and healthy skin showed IL-31R expression at higher levels on epidermal keratinocytes in AD samples. Infiltrating cells, more numerous in skin from patients with AD compared with that of healthy individuals, expressed IL-31 mRNA. IL-31 may participate in the cause of itch sensation and promote scratching behavior in NC/Nga mice with atopic dermatitis, and may represent a novel target for antipruritic drug development.
Background References
1. Dillon S R et al. Interleukin 31, a cytokine produced by activated T cells, induces dermatitis in mice. Nat Immunol 5:752-760 (2004).
2. Neis M M et al. Enhanced expression levels of IL-31 correlate with IL-4 and IL-13 in atopic and allergic contact dermatitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 118:930-937(2006).
Tissue Specificity
Detected at low levels in testis, bone marrow, skeletal muscle, kidney, colon, thymus, small intestine and trachea.
Western blot analysis of IL-31 on recombinant protein lysate using anti-IL-31 antibody at 1/500 dilution.
ICC staining IL-31 (green) in A431 cells. The nuclear counter stain is DAPI (blue). Cells were fixed in paraformaldehyde, permeabilised with 0.25% Triton X100/PBS.
ICC staining IL-31 (green) in LOVO cells. The nuclear counter stain is DAPI (blue). Cells were fixed in paraformaldehyde, permeabilised with 0.25% Triton X100/PBS.
ICC staining IL-31 (green) in MCF-7 cells. The nuclear counter stain is DAPI (blue). Cells were fixed in paraformaldehyde, permeabilised with 0.25% Triton X100/PBS.
Immunohistochemical analysis of paraffin-embedded human tonsil tissue using anti-IL-31 antibody. Counter stained with hematoxylin.
Please note: All products are "FOR RESEARCH USE ONLY AND ARE NOT INTENDED FOR DIAGNOSTIC OR THERAPEUTIC USE"