IL-8 Rabbit Polyclonal Antibody

Function

IL-8, also known as neutrophil chemotactic factor, has two primary functions. It induces chemotaxis in target cells, primarily neutrophils but also other granulocytes, causing them to migrate toward the site of infection. IL-8 also stimulates phagocytosis once they have arrived. IL-8 is also known to be a potent promoter of angiogenesis. In target cells, IL-8 induces a series of physiological responses required for migration and phagocytosis, such as increases in intracellular Ca2+, exocytosis (e.g. histamine release), and the respiratory burst.IL-8 can be secreted by any cells with toll-like receptors that are involved in the innate immune response. Usually, it is the macrophages that see an antigen first, and thus are the first cells to release IL-8 to recruit other cells. Both monomer and homodimer forms of IL-8 have been reported to be potent inducers of the chemokine receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2. The homodimer is more potent, but methylation of Leu25 can block the activity of homodimers.

Background References

1. van Damme J.et.al.The neutrophil-activating proteins interleukin 8 and beta-thromboglobulin: in vitro and in vivo comparison of NH2-terminally processed forms.Eur. J. Immunol. 20:2113-2118(1990).

Sequence Similarity

Belongs to the intercrine alpha (chemokine CxC) family.

Post-translational Modification

Several N-terminal processed forms are produced by proteolytic cleavage after secretion from at least peripheral blood monocytes, leukcocytes and endothelial cells. In general, IL-8(1-77) is referred to as interleukin-8. IL-8(6-77) is the most promiment form.; Citrullination at Arg-27 prevents proteolysis, and dampens tissue inflammation, it also enhances leukocytosis, possibly through impaired chemokine clearance from the blood circulation.

Subcellular Location

Secreted

UNIPROT

SwissProt: P10145 Human

Synonyms