a small protein which binds to specific receptors on the surface of immune system cells, particularly phagocytic cells and lymphocytes. Chemokines play a crucial role in inflammatory responses.
a type of cytokine, a soluble factor secreted by certain immune system cells that stimulates the activity of other cells. Certain chemokine receptors (e.g., CCR5, CXCR4) are necessary for entry by HIV into cells.
A small, soluble protein with a wide range of immunoregulatory functions.
Any of various cytokines produced in acute and chronic inflammationthat mobilize and activate white blood cells.
a small protein that causes cells to move
Member of a family of regulatory proteins involved in the inflammatory response
Molecule that causes white blood cells such as neutrophils and monocytes to move throughout the body (e.g., toward an injury) via the process of chemotaxis
A protein beacon that attracts white blood cells bearing a receptor for the chemokine.
A family of structurally related immune system hormones with potent leukocyte activation and/or chemotaxis. They are called 'pro-inflammator' molecules because they attract white blood cells to themselves, which can result in localized swelling and inflammation.
a chemical produced by cells that stimulates the activity of other cells. Certain chemokines are associated with autoimmune disorders, and some (e.g., MIP-1-alpha, MIP-1-beta, RANTES) have been shown to affect the activity of HIV.
a type of cytokine (see below) that can direct the movement of white blood cells to sites of inflammation in the body.
Chemotactic cytokines that regulate the transit of leukocytes from blood into tissues. Each type of leukocyte (e.g., neutrophil, lymphocyte, and eosinophil) bears chemokine receptors that guide it to particular chemokines in the tissue.
a soluble factor secreted by certain immune system cells that stimulates the activity of other cells. Chemokines have chemoattractant properties and act as messengers between cells.
soluble molecules that chemically attract lymphocytes and other cells
a substance manufactured by cells and tissues, that stimulates movement and activation of immune system cells to the area where the chemokine is produced.
Chemokines are a family of small cytokines, or proteins secreted by cells. Proteins are classified as chemokines according to shared structural characteristics such as small size (they are all approximately 8-10 kilodaltons in size), and the presence of four cysteine residues in conserved locations that are key to forming their 3-dimensional shape. Their name is derived from their ability to induce directed chemotaxis in nearby responsive cells; they are chemotactic cytokines.
