Interleukin 31

Interleukin-31 also known as IL-31 is a is_associated_with::protein that in humans is encoded by the IL31 is_associated_with::gene.

Function
IL-31 is a is_associated_with::cytokine with a four-helix bundle structure, which is preferentially produced by type 2 is_associated_with::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 (is_associated_with::IL31RA) and is_associated_with::oncostatin M receptor subunits. These receptor subunits are expressed in activated is_associated_with::monocytes and in unstimulated is_associated_with::epithelial cells.

Clinical significance
IL-31 is believed to play a role in is_associated_with::inflammation of the skin.