CSF2

Colony-stimulating factor 2 (CSF2), also named as granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), is a cytokine that controls the generation, differentiation, and function of granulocytes and macrophages. It is primarily expressed on T cells, natural killer cells, macrophages, endothelial cells, mast cells, and fibroblasts. Different from granulocyte colony-stimulating factor, which specifically enhances neutrophil proliferation and maturation, CSF2 regulates more cell types, especially macrophages and eosinophils. CSF2 is a white blood cell growth factor, which stimulates stem cells to generate granulocytes (eosinophils, neutrophils, and basophils) and monocytes.
Importantly, CSF2 also plays an important role in the immune system for influence the mature cells, such as refraining neutrophil migration and leading to an alteration of the receptors expressed on the cells surface. Besides, CSF2 signals through signal transducer and activator of transcription, STAT5. However, it has also found to signal by STAT3 in macrophages. The cytokine induces macrophages to inhibit fungal survival. It causes deprivation in intracellular free zinc and promotes the generation of reactive oxygen species that culminate in fungal zinc starvation and toxicity. Therefore, CSF2 promotes the development of the immune system and enhances defense against infections.
Gene ID: 1437
UniProt ID: P04141