This gene encodes a cytokine distantly related to type I interferons and the IL-10 family. This gene, interleukin 28B (IL28B), and interleukin 29 (IL29) are three closely related cytokine genes that form a cytokine gene cluster on a chromosomal region mapped to 19q13. Expression of the cytokines encoded by the three genes can be induced by viral infection. All three cytokines have been shown to interact with a heterodimeric class II cytokine receptor that consists of interleukin 10 receptor, beta (IL10RB) and interleukin 28 receptor, alpha (IL28RA). [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008],caution:It is uncertain whether Met-1 or Met-5 is the initiator.,function:Cytokine with immunomodulatory activity. Up-regulates MHC class I antigen expression. Displays potent antiviral activity. Also displays antitumor activity. Ligand for the heterodimeric class II cytokine receptor composed of IL10RB and IL28RA. The ligand/receptor complex seems to signal through the Jak-STAT pathway.,induction:By viral infections or double stranded RNA.,online information:Interleukin-28 entry,similarity:Belongs to the IL-28/IL-29 family.,
