Interleukin 13 (IL13) is also known as ALRH,and P600, is a single-chain glycosylated polypeptide, and is a cytokine critical in regulating inflammatory and immune responses. IL13 is secreted by many cell types, but especially by T helper type 2 (Th2) cells. IL-13 induces its effects through a multi-subunit receptor that includes the alpha chain of the IL-4 receptor (IL-4Rα) and at least one of two known IL-13-specific binding chains.As a cytokine, IL-13 protein is critical in regulating inflammatory, immune responses, and diseases. Also, it inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and thus down-regulates macrophage activity. IL-13 protein and antibody are more importantly implicated as a central mediator of immunoregulatory processes in various cell types.
