CXCL8
Description
The CXCL8 (C-X-C motif chemokine ligand 8) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 4.
CXCL8, also known as Interleukin-8 (IL-8) or chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 8, is a chemokine produced by various cells including macrophages, epithelial cells, airway smooth muscle cells, and endothelial cells. Endothelial cells store CXCL8 in their storage vesicles called Weibel–Palade bodies. CXCL8 is initially produced as a precursor peptide of 99 amino acids and undergoes cleavage to form several active isoforms. The major form secreted by macrophages in culture is a 72 amino acid peptide. CXCL8 binds to the G protein-coupled receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2, with higher affinity for CXCR1, initiating a chain of biochemical reactions that leads to its secretion and function as an important mediator of the innate immune response. CXCL8 is also known as neutrophil chemotactic factor and has two primary functions: inducing chemotaxis in neutrophils and other granulocytes, attracting them to the site of infection, and activating neutrophils to fight infection.
CXCL8 is a chemotactic factor that mediates inflammatory responses by attracting neutrophils, basophils, and T-cells to fight infections. It also activates neutrophils. CXCL8 is released during inflammation and binds to G-protein-coupled receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2, primarily found in neutrophils, monocytes, and endothelial cells. This binding activates signaling pathways including PI3K and MAPK, ultimately leading to neutrophil migration and activation.
CXCL8 is also known as GCP-1, GCP1, IL8, LECT, LUCT, LYNAP, MDNCF, MONAP, NAF, NAP-1, NAP1, SCYB8.
