IFNL4

This gene is a polymorphic pseudogene which, in some humans, encodes the interferon (IFN) lambda 4 protein. Humans are polymorphic for the dinucleotide TT/deltaG allele. Compared to the ancestral state in non-human primates, the TT allele produces a frameshift in the coding region of this gene which is predicted to induce nonsense-mediated mRNA decay. This allele, and an allele in the first intron of this gene, have experienced a rapid increase in frequency and show indications of positive selection. The ancestral states of these alleles are associated with an impaired ability to clear hepatitis C virus. This gene, like other type III interferons (IFNs), interacts with the IFN lambda receptor complex (IFNLR) whose signaling is generally restricted to epithelial cells. This gene resides in a cluster of four type III IFN genes and at least two pseudogenes on chromosome 19q13.2. In general, interferons are produced in response to viral infection and block viral replication and propagation to uninfected cells by activating the JAK-STAT pathway and up-regulating antiviral genes. Multiple alternatively spliced transcripts have been described for this gene but their biological validity and protein coding status is still being ascertained. [provided by RefSeq, May 2017]

A protein domain is a distinct structural or functional region within a protein that can evolve, function, and exist independently of the rest of the protein chain. These domains in human IFNL4 often fold into stable, three-dimensional structures and are associated with specific biological functions, such as binding to DNA, other proteins, or small molecules.

Biological processes and signaling networks where the IFNL4 gene in human plays a role, providing insight into its function and relevance in health or disease.

The most significant associations for this gene, including commonly observed domains, pathway involvement, and functional highlights based on current data.

Locations within the cell where the protein is known or predicted to be active, providing insight into its function and cellular context.

Describes the biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions associated with the human IFNL4 gene, providing context for its role in the cell.