C-C motif chemokine ligand 3 like 3

C-C motif chemokine ligand 3 like 3 (also known as CCL3L3) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the CCL3L3 gene. This protein is a member of the chemokine family, a group of small cytokines, or signaling proteins secreted by cells.

Structure of CCL3L3

Function

The function of CCL3L3 is to attract leukocytes such as monocytes, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells to sites of inflammation. It does this by binding to the chemokine receptors CCR1, CCR4, and CCR5. This binding triggers a response in the leukocytes, causing them to move towards the source of the chemokine.

Structure

CCL3L3 is a small protein, consisting of approximately 70 amino acids. It has a typical chemokine structure, with a flexible N-terminal region and a rigid C-terminal helix. The protein is highly conserved, meaning that it has a similar structure and function in many different species.

Clinical significance

CCL3L3 has been implicated in a number of diseases, including HIV infection and rheumatoid arthritis. In the case of HIV, the virus uses the CCR5 receptor to enter cells, and variations in the CCL3L3 gene can affect the availability of this receptor. In rheumatoid arthritis, CCL3L3 is thought to contribute to the inflammation and damage to the joints.

Research

Research into CCL3L3 is ongoing, with scientists investigating its role in other diseases, such as cancer and autoimmune diseases. Understanding the function of this chemokine could lead to new treatments for these conditions.

See also

• Chemokine
• Cytokine
• Leukocyte
• Monocyte
• Dendritic cell
• Natural killer cell
• Chemokine receptor
• Amino acid
• HIV
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Cancer
• Autoimmune disease