CCL2
Description
The CCL2 (C-C motif chemokine ligand 2) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 17.
CCL2, also known as monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP1) and small inducible cytokine A2, is a small cytokine belonging to the CC chemokine family. It plays a crucial role in regulating cellular mechanics by recruiting monocytes, memory T cells, and dendritic cells to sites of inflammation caused by tissue injury or infection. CCL2, along with many other CC chemokines, is located on chromosome 17 (17q11.2-q21.1) in the human genome. The gene spans 1,927 bases and resides on the Watson (plus) strand, containing three exons and two introns. The CCL2 protein precursor includes a signal peptide of 23 amino acids, and the mature CCL2 protein consists of 76 amino acids, with a predicted weight of 11.025 kDa. Notably, the levels of CCL2 can vary significantly among individuals.
CCL2 acts as a ligand for the C-C chemokine receptor CCR2, triggering a signaling cascade that involves CCR2 activation, strong chemotactic response, and mobilization of intracellular calcium ions. It specifically attracts monocytes and basophils, but not neutrophils or eosinophils. CCL2 is implicated in the recruitment of monocytes into the arterial wall, potentially contributing to the development of atherosclerosis.
CCL2 is also known as GDCF-2, HC11, HSMCR30, MCAF, MCP-1, MCP1, SCYA2, SMC-CF.
