The family of insulin receptor substrates (IRSs) has been reported to play important roles for signal transduction of various hormones. Four members of the IRS family have been described. Each IRS is believed to have different functions; however, the distinct physiological roles of each IRS are unclear. Summary: This gene encodes the insulin receptor substrate 2, a cytoplasmic signaling molecule that mediates effects of insulin, insulin-like growth factor 1, and other cytokines by acting as a molecular adaptor between diverse receptor tyrosine kinases and downstream effectors. The product of this gene is phosphorylated by the insulin receptor tyrosine kinase upon receptor stimulation, as well as by an interleukin 4 receptor-associated kinase in response to IL4 treatment.