IL11

The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the gp130 family of cytokines. These cytokines drive the assembly of multisubunit receptor complexes, all of which contain at least one molecule of the transmembrane signaling receptor IL6ST (gp130). This cytokine is shown to stimulate the T-cell-dependent development of immunoglobulin-producing B cells. It is also found to support the proliferation of hematopoietic stem cells and megakaryocyte progenitor cells. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding distinct isoforms have been found for this gene. [provided by RefSeq, Jun 2012]

Interleukin 11

Cytokine that stimulates the proliferation of hematopoietic stem cells and megakaryocyte progenitor cells and induces megakaryocyte maturation resulting in increased platelet production (PubMed:2145578).

Also promotes the proliferation of hepatocytes in response to liver damage. Binding to its receptor formed by IL6ST and IL11RA activates a signaling cascade that promotes cell proliferation (PubMed:12919066).

Signaling leads to the activation of intracellular protein kinases and the phosphorylation of STAT3. The interaction with the membrane-bound IL11RA and IL6ST stimulates 'classic signaling', whereas the binding of IL11 and soluble IL11RA to IL6ST stimulates 'trans-signaling' (PubMed:30279168).

B cell differentiation Source: UniProtKB
Fat cell differentiation Source: UniProtKB
Megakaryocyte differentiation Source: UniProtKB
Negative regulation of hormone secretion Source: MGI
Positive regulation of cell population proliferation Source: UniProtKB
Positive regulation of MAPK cascade Source: MGI
Positive regulation of peptidyl-serine phosphorylation Source: MGI
Positive regulation of peptidyl-tyrosine phosphorylation Source: MGI
Positive regulation of transcription by RNA polymerase II Source: MGI

Secreted

Available under the name Neumega (Wyeth). Used for the prevention of severe thrombocytopenia and the reduction of the need for platelet transfusion following myelosuppressive chemotherapy.