This gene encodes a member of the type II cytokine receptor family. The encoded protein is a subunit of the receptor for interleukin 20, a cytokine that may be involved in epidermal function. The interleukin 20 receptor is a heterodimeric complex consisting of the encoded protein and interleukin 20 receptor beta. This gene and interleukin 20 receptor beta are highly expressed in skin, and are upregulated in psoriasis. Alternative splicing results in multiple transcript variants.