interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R)

The interleukin-6 receptor (IL-6R) is a protein on the surface of certain cells that detects a molecule called interleukin-6 (IL-6), which is part of the body’s immune response. When IL-6 binds to IL-6R, it triggers processes that help coordinate inflammation, immune defense, and healing. This receptor plays a key role in regulating immune system activity and inflammation. Dysfunction or overactivation of IL-6R can contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases, making it a target for certain therapies designed to modulate immune responses.