This gene encodes a cytokine distantly related to type I interferons and the IL-10 family. This gene, interleukin 28B (IL28B), and interleukin 29 (IL29) are three closely related cytokine genes that form a cytokine gene cluster on a chromosomal region mapped to 19q13. Expression of the cytokines encoded by the three genes can be induced by viral infection. All three cytokines have been shown to interact with a heterodimeric class II cytokine receptor that consists of interleukin 10 receptor, beta (IL10RB) and interleukin 28 receptor, alpha (IL28RA).IFNL2 (Interferon Lambda 2) is a Protein Coding gene. Among its related pathways are all-trans-Retinoic Acid Mediated Apoptosis and Innate Immune System. GO annotations related to this gene include receptor binding and cytokine activity. An important paralog of this gene is IFNL3.