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Gene & pathway reference · FROM DR. PURSER’S TEACHING

IL23R

IL23R encodes part of the receptor that receives IL-23 signals. This connects the gene to the maintenance of Th17-related immune responses, which differ from the Th2 patterns discussed in allergy.

Based on teaching by Dan Purser, MD. How we prepare these guides

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · Educational reference

THE TEACHING CONNECTION

The receptor side of the IL-23 pathway

The receptor side of the IL-23 pathway

IL23R encodes part of the receptor that receives IL-23 signals. This connects the gene to the maintenance of Th17-related immune responses, which differ from the Th2 patterns discussed in allergy.

Putting the pieces together

Dr. Purser includes IL23R in his inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis teaching. The gene, the cytokine IL-23 and the downstream cytokine IL-17A are related but distinct. An inherited marker does not measure receptor function in your tissues or diagnose either condition.

More from the teaching: A receptor in the gut–immune conversation

Dr. Purser’s course connects IL23R with IL-23 signaling and gut immune activation. The receptor gene and a measured cytokine level are different kinds of information; a receptor variant does not tell you how much IL-23 is circulating.

Putting the pieces together

Immune signals can be discussed alongside homocysteine and antioxidant defenses. Track when symptoms flare and what may trigger them, then review any measured results with your clinician. A single variant or cytokine result cannot diagnose an autoimmune disease or a cytokine storm.

Where the VARS Triad and MTHFR Daily fit

If you are exploring homocysteine or cytokines, Dr. Purser may discuss MTHFR Daily and the VARS Triad: VARS Glutathione, VARS SOD, and VARS Catalase. He gives glutathione a central place in his approach to antioxidant support.

A gene result alone cannot tell you that you need these products or that they will treat a condition. Review your current results, medicines, goals, and tolerance with your clinician before choosing a product or dose.

A question to bring to your visit

Do symptoms and standard clinical testing support the inflammatory condition being discussed?

Variant lookup

These names can help you find an entry on your original genetic report. Seeing a name here does not tell you whether it affects your health or whether you need treatment.

Names you may see

IL-23R · Interleukin 23 Receptor