Chemokines
Chemokines
Chemokines (/ˈkɛmoʊkaɪnz/), also known as chemotactic cytokines, are a family of small proteins that play an integral role in immunological and inflammatory responses.
Etymology
The term "chemokine" is derived from "chemo-" which refers to chemical substances and "-kine" from "kinesis" meaning movement. This is reflective of the chemokines' role in directing the movement of cells.
Function
Chemokines are responsible for the migration of leukocytic cells towards the site of inflammation or infection. They are released by various cell types including macrophages, dendritic cells, and T cells. Chemokines bind to specific G protein-coupled receptors on the surface of leukocytes, triggering intracellular signaling pathways that result in cell migration.
Classification
Chemokines are classified into four main subfamilies: CXC, CC, C and CX3C. This classification is based on the arrangement of the first two of the four conserved cysteine residues.
CXC Chemokines
CXC chemokines, also known as alpha chemokines, primarily attract neutrophils to the site of infection.
CC Chemokines
CC chemokines, or beta chemokines, attract monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils to the site of inflammation.
C Chemokines
C chemokines, or gamma chemokines, have only two cysteines; one N-terminal cysteine and one cysteine downstream. They attract T cells and dendritic cells.
CX3C Chemokines
CX3C chemokines, or delta chemokines, have three amino acids between the first two cysteines. They attract T cells, monocytes, and natural killer cells.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Chemokines
- Wikipedia's article - Chemokines
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