C-C motif chemokine ligand 26 (CCL26)

C-C motif chemokine ligand 26 (CCL26), also known as Eotaxin-3, is a small cytokine belonging to the CC chemokine family, primarily acting as a chemoattractant for eosinophils and basophils through activation of the chemokine receptor CCR3[1][2][6]. It is secreted by several tissues, including the heart, lung, ovary, and endothelial cells, particularly after stimulation by interleukin-4[1]. CCL26 not only promotes the migration of inflammatory cells in allergic conditions, but also displays antimicrobial activity against certain bacterial pathogens[2]. Uniquely, it serves as both an agonist for CCR3 and an antagonist for CCR1, CCR2, and CCR5—suggesting it modulates both pro- and anti-inflammatory signaling and may play a dual regulatory role in immune cell recruitment[3]. CCL26 is most prominently implicated in conditions where eosinophil accumulation is a pathological hallmark, such as atopic disorders and certain cases of esophagitis[2].

Other names

Eotaxin-3Macrophage inflammatory protein 4-alpha (MIP-4-alpha)Thymic stroma chemokine-1 (TSC-1)IMACSmall inducible cytokine A26SCYA26

Ligand for C-C chemokine receptor type 3 (CCR3), attracting eosinophils and basophils[1][2][6]. Acts as an agonist for CCR3 and CX3CR1[2][5]. Acts as a natural antagonist for CCR1, CCR2, and CCR5, inhibiting their chemotactic activity[3].