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IFNG encodes interferon gamma, a cytokine involved in cellular immune defense and activation of macrophages. It differs from the Th2 signals more often emphasized in allergic responses.

IL10 encodes interleukin-10, a cytokine that can limit inflammatory responses and help prevent excessive immune-mediated tissue damage. Immune balance includes resolving a response as well as starting one.

IL12B encodes the p40 subunit shared by IL-12 and IL-23. This makes it an intersection between immune pathways rather than a stand-alone measure of one cytokine.

IL13 encodes interleukin-13, a cytokine involved in Th2 immune responses, mucus-related processes and tissue remodeling. It overlaps with some IL-4 functions but is not the same signal.

IL15 encodes a cytokine involved in the survival and activity of immune cells, including natural killer cells and memory CD8 T cells. Its receptor system includes IL15RA.

IL15RA encodes the alpha receptor component for IL-15. It helps present IL-15 to responding immune cells, supporting communication that is important for particular lymphocyte populations.

IL16 encodes interleukin-16, a cytokine involved in attracting and influencing immune cells, including CD4-expressing cells. Its recruitment role helps separate it from other numbered interleukins.

IL17A encodes interleukin-17A, a cytokine involved in defense at tissue barriers and inflammatory signaling. It belongs to the Th17 pathway, which is supported by signals including IL-23.

IL18 encodes interleukin-18, a cytokine that can promote interferon-gamma responses in the appropriate immune context. Its receptor includes components encoded by IL18R1 and IL18RAP.

IL18R1 encodes a component of the receptor for IL-18. It works with an accessory component, IL18RAP, to support IL-18 signaling.

IL18RAP encodes an accessory protein in the IL-18 receptor complex. The receptor needs coordinated components to translate an extracellular signal into a cellular response.

IL1B encodes interleukin-1 beta, a cytokine involved in inflammatory responses and fever. Its production and activation are regulated processes, not simply an on/off consequence of having a common SNP.