Interleukin 9

Interleukin 9, also known as IL-9, is a is_associated_with::cytokine (cell signalling molecule) belonging to the group of is_associated_with::interleukins.

Function
The protein encoded by this gene is a is_associated_with::cytokine produced by is_associated_with::T-cells and specifically by is_associated_with::CD4+ helper cells that acts as a regulator of a variety of is_associated_with::hematopoietic cells. This cytokine stimulates is_associated_with::cell proliferation and prevents is_associated_with::apoptosis. It functions through the is_associated_with::interleukin-9 receptor (IL9R), which activates different signal transducer and activator (STAT) proteins and thus connects this cytokine to various biological processes. The gene encoding this cytokine has been identified as a candidate gene for is_associated_with::asthma. Genetic studies on a mouse model of asthma demonstrated that this cytokine is a determining factor in the pathogenesis of is_associated_with::bronchial hyperresponsiveness.

Interleukin-9 has also shown to inhibit is_associated_with::melanoma growth in mice.