What is Interferon-α/β receptor 2 and Why Does the Immune Zoomer Test for It?

Type I interferon receptor subunit

Interferon-α/β receptor 2 (IFNAR2) is a cell-surface receptor subunit that helps cells respond to type I interferons, key signaling proteins in antiviral and immune regulation. Measuring IFNAR2 gives insight into interferon pathway activity and broader immune signaling patterns that can influence inflammation and tissue responses.

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Interferon-α/β receptor 2

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About Interferon-α/β receptor 2

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About Interferon-α/β receptor 2

Overview and History

IFNAR2 is a transmembrane protein that forms part of the type I interferon receptor complex together with IFNAR1. Biochemically it functions as a cytokine receptor subunit that binds interferon-alpha and interferon-beta, initiating downstream JAK–STAT signaling that alters gene expression and cellular antiviral defenses. Discovered as part of early interferon research, IFNAR2 has both membrane-bound and soluble isoforms. Its expression level and signaling capacity influence how strongly cells react to interferons, affecting antiviral programs, antigen presentation signals, and broader immune-regulatory pathways that shape inflammatory responses.

Interpreting Highs and Lows

Higher measured levels or increased activity related to IFNAR2 may reflect upregulated interferon signaling or a compensatory response to immune activation; this can align with heightened antiviral signaling or systemic immune stimulation. Lower levels or reduced receptor availability may indicate weakened interferon responsiveness, altered signaling balance, or increased receptor shedding. Interpretation depends on other Immune Zoomer markers—IFNAR2 values are most informative when viewed alongside cytokine-related markers, autoantibodies, and signs of systemic immune activity.

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IFNAR2 is included in the Immune Zoomer to evaluate type I interferon pathway status as part of the Vascular and Immune-Signaling domain. It helps reveal immune signaling patterns that may drive inflammation or affect antiviral defenses, supporting clinicians in mapping multi-system immune activity and prioritizing targeted follow-up testing and care planning.

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Interferon-α/β receptor 2 FAQs

What is Interferon-α/β receptor 2 and why is it important?

IFNAR2 is a protein on cell surfaces that helps cells detect and respond to type I interferons, signaling molecules released during immune activation. Its activity influences how strongly cells mount antiviral defenses and modulate inflammatory responses. Because interferon signaling affects many tissues, IFNAR2 levels can provide clues about underlying immune pathway balance.

What does it mean if my Interferon-α/β receptor 2 levels are low?

Lower IFNAR2 levels may suggest reduced receptor availability or signaling capacity, which can be associated with a weaker cellular response to type I interferons. That pattern may align with changes in antiviral signaling or shifts in immune regulation. Low results are best interpreted with the full Immune Zoomer profile and clinical context to understand their relevance.

What does it mean if my Interferon-α/β receptor 2 levels are high?

Higher IFNAR2 measurements can indicate increased interferon pathway engagement or a compensatory rise in receptor expression or soluble forms. This pattern may be associated with stronger interferon-driven signaling and broader immune activation. Confirming the significance of elevated levels requires comparison with other immune markers and clinical information.

Why is IFNAR2 included in the Immune Zoomer?

IFNAR2 helps map the activity of the type I interferon pathway, a central immune signaling route that affects antiviral responses and inflammation. Including it lets providers see whether interferon signaling contributes to the overall immune pattern detected by the panel, aiding more precise interpretation and personalized follow-up.

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