### IL2RB Gene Overview

**Gene Symbol:** IL2RB  
**Location:** Chromosome 22 (22q12.3)

The IL2RB gene encodes the beta subunit of the interleukin-2 (IL-2) receptor. This gene plays a crucial role in T cell-mediated immune responses by forming a part of the high-affinity IL-2 receptor complex that transduces mitogenic signals. The IL2RB protein interacts with the alpha (IL2RA) and gamma (IL2RG) subunits to form two high-affinity receptor configurations that facilitate receptor-mediated endocytosis and signaling events necessary for T cell proliferation and activity.

### 1. Associated Genes

The IL2RB gene is commonly associated with the following genes:

- **IL2RA** (Interleukin-2 receptor alpha): This gene encodes the alpha subunit of the IL-2 receptor and works in conjunction with IL2RB.
- **IL2RG** (Interleukin-2 receptor gamma): This gene encodes the gamma subunit and is essential for the formation of the high-affinity IL-2 receptor.
- **IL15RA** (Interleukin-15 receptor alpha): Interacts with IL2RB to mediate signals for IL-15, which shares functional similarities with IL-2.
- **STAT5A/B** (Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription): These genes are involved in the signaling pathway activated by IL-2 and IL-15.

### 2. Aging and Age-Related Diseases

While specific studies linking IL2RB directly to aging and age-related diseases are limited, the following associations have been noted:

- **Immune Senescence:** IL2RB is involved in T cell proliferation; with aging, T cell function declines (known as immune senescence), which could disrupt IL-2 signaling mechanisms.
- **Autoimmune Diseases:** Variants of IL2RB have been implicated in autoimmune diseases, which can have increased prevalence with age (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis).
- **Cancer:** Dysregulation of IL-2 signaling due to changes in IL2RB expression can lead to compromised immune regulation and increased susceptibility to cancers in aging populations.

### 3. Drug or Drug Classes Interaction

The IL2RB gene and its encoded protein are targets for several therapeutic agents, including:

- **Immunosuppressants:** Such as **Tacrolimus** and **Cyclosporine**, which are used to prevent organ transplant rejection by inhibiting T cell activation via blocking IL-2 signaling.
- **Monoclonal Antibodies:** Such as **Daclizumab** and other anti-IL-2R antibodies, which are designed to block IL-2 receptor interactions to modulate immune responses in autoimmune conditions.

### 4. Pathways and Biological Processes

IL2RB is involved in several key biological processes and signaling pathways, including:

- **Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction:** Particularly the signaling pathways associated with IL-2 and IL-15.
- **JAK-STAT signaling pathway:** Critical for mediating the effects of cytokines such as IL-2, leading to transcriptional activation of target genes involved in cell growth and differentiation.
- **T cell proliferation:** Essential in the immune response, as IL-2 signaling promotes clonal expansion of T cells.
- **Receptor-mediated endocytosis:** Facilitates the uptake and degradation of cytokine-receptor complexes, allowing for regulated signaling.

### Conclusion

The IL2RB gene is crucial in regulating immune responses through its role in the IL-2 receptor complex. Its impact on signaling pathways, connections to other key immunological genes, and association with therapeutic interventions highlight its importance in both health and disease, particularly with implications in aging and immune function. Further research is necessary to elucidate the full scope of its implications in various pathologies related to age and immune dysfunction.