CCL17

CCL17, also known as Chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 17, is a small cytokine belonging to the CC chemokine family that is also known as Thymus and activation-regulated chemokine (TARC). CCL17 is expressed predominantly in the thymus and is also expressed in the lungs and the skin. It is chemotactic for T-lymphocytes but not monocytes or granulocytes.

Structure

CCL17 is a small protein of 94 amino acids, it is a member of the CC chemokine family. The gene for CCL17 is located on human chromosome 16 along with other chemokines.

Function

CCL17 attracts T-lymphocytes towards the site of inflammation by binding to chemokine receptor CCR4. It plays a key role in T-cell development in thymus and in trafficking and activation of mature T-cells.

Clinical significance

CCL17 has been implicated in allergic responses. Elevated levels of CCL17 are found in patients with atopic dermatitis, asthma and other allergic diseases. It is also involved in the pathogenesis of various inflammatory diseases and is associated with the progression of certain types of cancer.

See also

• Chemokine
• Cytokine
• T-lymphocyte
• Atopic dermatitis
• Asthma

References

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