CCL7

CCL7, or chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 7, is a member of the CC chemokine family. It is a small secreted cytokine that functions as a chemoattractant, primarily for monocytes and, to a lesser extent, eosinophils, basophils, and some T lymphocytes. CCL7 exerts its effects by binding to several chemokine receptors, principally CCR1 and CCR2, and can also interact with CCR3 in certain cell types.

Expression and regulation: CCL7 is produced by a range of cell types including macrophages, dendritic cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells. Its production is upregulated in response to inflammatory stimuli such as interleukin-1, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and microbial products, as part of the innate immune response.

Function and role in disease: In normal physiology, CCL7 guides the recruitment of monocytes to sites of infection or tissue injury and helps coordinate early inflammatory responses. In disease contexts, elevated levels or dysregulated signaling of CCL7 have been reported in conditions such as atherosclerosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and certain cancers, where monocyte/macrophage infiltration influences pathology. Animal studies have used CCL7 to model monocyte recruitment and to test strategies for modulating inflammation.

Clinical relevance and research: Because of its role in leukocyte trafficking, CCL7 is studied as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in inflammatory diseases. Fine-tuned modulation of CCL7 signaling may affect macrophage recruitment and tissue inflammation, though therapeutic applications remain an area of ongoing research.