C-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CCR4) (CCR4)

C-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CCR4) is a G protein-coupled receptor that serves as the primary receptor for the chemokines CCL17 (also known as thymus and activation-regulated chemokine, or TARC) and CCL22. It is predominantly expressed on T helper type 2 (Th2) cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and certain types of malignant T cells. The interaction between CCR4 and its ligands is critical for the migration of these cells to inflammatory sites and the tumor microenvironment. In hematologic oncology, CCR4 is highly expressed in adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) and cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), where it serves as a direct target for monoclonal antibodies like mogamulizumab that induce cell death via antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity. Beyond direct malignancy, CCR4 plays a significant role in solid tumors by recruiting immunosuppressive Tregs, which inhibit the anti-tumor immune response. In the context of allergic diseases, CCR4-mediated Th2 cell recruitment contributes to the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis and asthma, making it a target for small molecule antagonists intended to reduce chronic inflammation.

Other names

CD194Chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 4CC-CKR-4CKR4HGNC:1605TARC receptor

Antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and receptor antagonism to inhibit ligand-induced chemotaxis.