Chemokines, receptors, and their role in cardiovascular pathology

A superfamily of leukocyte chemotactic proteins, known as chemokines, has been identified during the past decade. Chemokines selectively attract and activate different leukocyte subpopulations and are key mediators of a variety of patho-physiological states, including hematopoiesis, inflammation, infection, allergy, atheroslerosis, reperfusion injury, as well as malignant tumors. Chemokines bind and activate a number of specific or promiscuous, G-protein-coupled seven-transmembrane receptors. Some of these receptors are utilized by human immuno-deficiency virus type 1 as essential fusion co-factors. Further understanding of the role of chemokines and their receptors in host defense will help develop means by which the beneficial versus detrimental effects of these molecules can be balanced. The contents of this publication do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the Department of Health and Human Services, nor does mention of trade names, commercial products, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. government. The publisher or recipient acknowledges right of the U.S. Government to retain a non-exclusive, royalty-free license in and to any copyright covering the article.