IL36Ra

The IL36Ra gene encodes a protein belonging to the interleukin-36 family, which are cytokines involved in inflammatory responses. Specifically, IL-36Ra acts as an endogenous antagonist of IL-36 receptor signaling. This means it binds to the IL-36 receptor but does not activate it, thereby inhibiting the activity of other IL-36 cytokines like IL-36α, IL-36β, and IL-36γ. This inhibitory function plays a crucial role in regulating and dampening inflammatory processes. Mutations in the IL36Ra gene have been linked to several autoinflammatory diseases, including generalized pustular psoriasis and other forms of pustular psoriasis. In these conditions, the lack of functional IL-36Ra leads to uncontrolled IL-36 signaling and consequently, excessive inflammation characterized by the formation of sterile pustules. Research into IL36Ra's role is ongoing, focusing on its therapeutic potential in managing inflammatory conditions.