CCL19

CCL19 is a small cytokine belonging to the CC chemokine family that is also known as EBI1 ligand chemokine (ELC) and macrophage inflammatory protein-3-beta (MIP-3-beta). CCL19 is expressed in various tissues, including the thymus and lymph nodes, and exerts its effects on immune cells through CCR7, a G protein-coupled receptor related to chemokines.

Structure

CCL19 is a small protein of 8-10 kilodaltons, composed of approximately 70-80 amino acids. The protein has a typical chemokine fold, with a flexible N-terminus followed by a three-stranded beta-sheet and a C-terminal alpha-helix.

Function

CCL19 is involved in several immune responses. It is a chemoattractant for dendritic cells, T cells, and B cells, and plays a crucial role in guiding these cells to lymphoid tissues. CCL19 also plays a role in the homing of T cells to the thymus during their development.

Clinical significance

Alterations in the expression or function of CCL19 have been implicated in a variety of diseases, including autoimmune diseases, cancer, and HIV infection. In autoimmune diseases, overexpression of CCL19 can lead to the recruitment of autoreactive T cells, contributing to tissue damage. In cancer, CCL19 can promote tumor growth and metastasis by attracting tumor-associated macrophages. In HIV infection, CCL19 can attract HIV-infected cells, facilitating the spread of the virus.

See also

• Chemokine
• Cytokine
• CCR7
• Dendritic cell
• T cell
• B cell