This antimicrobial gene is one of several chemokine genes clustered on the q-arm of chromosome 17. Chemokines form a superfamily of secreted proteins involved in immunoregulatory and inflammatory processes. The superfamily is divided into four subfamilies based on the arrangement of N-terminal cysteine residues of the mature peptide. This chemokine is a member of the CC subfamily which is characterized by two adjacent cysteine residues. This cytokine displays chemotactic activity for monocytes, lymphocytes, basophils and eosinophils. By recruiting leukocytes to sites of inflammation this cytokine may contribute to tumor-associated leukocyte infiltration and to the antiviral state against HIV infection. [provided by RefSeq, Sep 2014],function:Chemotactic factor that attracts monocytes, lymphocytes, basophils and eosinophils. May play a role in neoplasia and inflammatory host responses. This protein can bind heparin. The processed form MCP-2(6-76) does not show monocyte chemotactic activity, but inhibits the chemotactic effect most predominantly of CCL7, and also of CCL2 and CCL5 and CCL8.,induction:By interferon gamma, mitogens and interleukin-1.,online information:CCL8 entry,PTM:N-terminal processed form MCP-2(6-76) is produced by proteolytic cleavage after secretion from peripheral blood monocytes.,similarity:Belongs to the intercrine beta (chemokine CC) family.,subunit:Monomer or homodimer, in equilibrium.,tissue specificity:Highest expression found in the small intestine and peripheral blood cells. Intermediate levels seen in the heart, placenta, lung, skeletal muscle, thymus, colon, ovary, spinal cord and pancreas. Low levels seen in the brain, liver, spleen and prostate.,
