The IL-1 system includes two agonists (IL-1alpha and IL-1beta), converting enzymes, antagonists, two receptors (IL-1 R I and IL-1 R II) and the IL-1 receptor accessory protein. The IL-1 R II is part of the antagonistic IL-1 mechanism. It is also known as decoy receptor and is a non signaling molecule which functions...

Two distinct types of receptors that bind the pleiotropic cytokines IL-1a and IL-1b have been described. The IL-1 receptor Type I is an 80kD transmembrane protein that is expressed predominantly by T cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells. IL-1 receptor Type II is a 68kD transmembrane protein found on B...