IL-2-induced cellular events

In this review we discuss several molecules that are attractive candidates as transducing molecules involved in signaling processes. IL-2 receptor signaling is a complex process involving a large number of molecules: Ras, Rho, PI3 kinase, PKC, Akt, transcription factors NF-AT, and NF-kappaB and some target genes such as bcl-2, c-myc, c-jun and c-fos. Ras and Rho have been defined as dual molecules because Ras- and Rho-initiated signals can either promote or inhibit apoptosis. Several studies have contributed to the delineation of a signaling pathway structured in three independent channels designated channels 1, 2, and 3. These three channels serve as major landmarks: Lck-c-fos/c-jun (channel 1), Syk-myc (channel 2), and a pathway leading to actin organization/bcl-2 expression (channel 3). The detailed hierarchical organization of these three channels is presented throughout the review and the model is depicted in the figure.