CCL15

CCL15 or Chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 15 is a small cytokine belonging to the CC chemokine family that is also known as Monotactin-1 (Mtn-1). This chemokine is produced as a protein precursor that is cleaved to generate the mature protein. CCL15 is expressed in liver, lung, and small intestine, and is chemotactic for monocytes and lymphocytes.

Structure

CCL15 is a small protein with a molecular weight of approximately 8 kDa. It is composed of 74 amino acids and is structurally related to other chemokines in the CC family. The mature protein is generated by proteolytic cleavage of a precursor protein.

Function

CCL15 is a chemotactic factor that attracts monocytes and lymphocytes but not neutrophils. This chemokine is also involved in the homeostasis of monocyte-derived macrophages rather than in inflammation. CCL15 is also thought to be involved in the recruitment of monocytes into the arterial wall during the disease process of atherosclerosis.

Clinical significance

CCL15 has been implicated in a number of diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, atherosclerosis, and cancer. In rheumatoid arthritis, CCL15 is thought to play a role in the recruitment of inflammatory cells into the joint. In atherosclerosis, CCL15 may be involved in the recruitment of monocytes into the arterial wall. In cancer, CCL15 may play a role in the growth and spread of tumors.

See also

• Chemokine
• Cytokine
• Monocyte
• Lymphocyte
• Atherosclerosis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Cancer