CSF2RB (also known as cytokine receptor common subunit beta)([βc]/CD131) family of cytokines comprises granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin (IL)-3, and IL-5, all of which use βc as their key signaling receptor subunit. This is a prototypic signaling subunit-sharing cytokine family that has unveiled many biological paradigms and structural principles applicable to the IL-2, IL-4, and IL-6 receptor families, all of which also share one or more signaling subunits. Originally identified for their functions in the hematopoietic system, the βc cytokines are now known to be truly pleiotropic, impacting on multiple cell types, organs, and biological systems, and thereby controlling the balance between health and disease.

Gene targeting strategy for B-hCSF2RB mice. The exons 2~10 of mouse Csf2rb gene that encode the extracellular region were replaced by human CSF2RB exons 2~10 in B-hCSF2RB mice.

Strain specific CSF2RB expression analysis in homozygous B-hCSF2RB mice by flow cytometry. Bone marrow cells were collected from WT and homozygous B-hCSF2RB (H/H) mice and analyzed by flow cytometry with species-specific anti-CSF2RB antibody. Mouse CSF2RB was exclusively detectable in WT mice. Human CSF2RB were exclusively detectable in homozygous B-hCSF2RB mice but not in WT mice.