The protein encoded by this gene is a cytokine receptor for interleukin 21 (IL21). It belongs to the type I cytokine receptors, and has been shown to form a heterodimeric receptor complex with the common gamma-chain, a receptor subunit also shared by the receptors for interleukin 2, 4, 7, 9, and 15. This receptor transduces the growth promoting signal of IL21, and is important for the proliferation and differentiation of T cells, B cells, and natural killer (NK) cells. The ligand binding of this receptor leads to the activation of multiple downstream signaling molecules, including JAK1, JAK3, STAT1, and STAT3. Knockout studies of a similar gene in mouse suggest a role for this gene in regulating immunoglobulin production. Three alternatively spliced transcript variants have been described. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2010],
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Function:
Domain:The box 1 motif is required for JAK interaction and/or activation.,Domain:The WSXWS motif appears to be necessary for proper protein folding and thereby efficient intracellular transport and cell-surface receptor binding.,Function:This is a receptor for interleukin-21.,similarity:Belongs to the type I cytokine receptor family. Type 4 subfamily.,similarity:Contains 1 fibronectin type-III domain.,subunit:Heterodimer with the common gamma chain. Associates with JAK1.,tissue specificity:Selectively expressed in lymphoid tissues. Most highly expressed in thymus and spleen.,
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Cellular Localization:
Membrane; Single-pass type I membrane protein.
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Tissue Expression:
Selectively expressed in lymphoid tissues. Most highly expressed in thymus and spleen.