Associates with IL12B to form the IL-23 interleukin, an heterodimeric cytokine which functions in innate and adaptive immunity. IL-23 may constitute with IL-17 an acute response to infection in peripheral tissues. IL-23 binds to an heterodimeric receptor complex composed of IL12RB1 and IL23R, activates the Jak-Stat signaling cascade, stimulates memory rather than naive T-cells and promotes production of proinflammatory cytokines. IL-23 induces autoimmune inflammation and thus may be responsible for autoimmune inflammatory diseases and may be important for tumorigenesis.

Secreted by activated dendritic and phagocytic cells and keratinocytes. Also expressed by dermal Langerhans cells (at protein level).

Belongs to the IL-6 superfamily.

Expressed by newborns dendritic cells.

Secreted. Secreted upon association with IL12B.