Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 2 (CXCL2)

Macrophage inflammatory protein-2 (CXCL2) is a member of the CXC chemokine family primarily produced by macrophages, monocytes, epithelial cells, and hepatocytes in response to tissue injury or microbial infection. It binds to chemokine receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2 on neutrophils, signaling via pathways such as MAPKs and NF-κB, and induces migration, activation, and release of other inflammatory mediators. CXCL2 is critical in acute inflammatory responses but is also implicated in pathological inflammation, including liver damage, pulmonary inflammation, and tumor metastasis. Therapeutic strategies have targeted CXCL2 signaling to modulate inflammatory diseases, but intervention must balance efficacy against risks to host immunity.

Other names

Macrophage inflammatory protein-2MIP-2CXCL2

Drugs or antibodies that antagonize CXCL2 or block its interaction with CXCR1/CXCR2 prevent neutrophil recruitment and activation, thereby reducing inflammation.