Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 8 (CXCL8 (commonly "IL-8"))

Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 8 (CXCL8), commonly known as interleukin-8 (IL-8), is a small, soluble cytokine belonging to the CXC chemokine family[2][3]. CXCL8 is primarily secreted by macrophages, epithelial cells, endothelial cells, and airway smooth muscle cells in response to pro-inflammatory stimuli[2][3]. It functions as a critical chemotactic factor, attracting neutrophils and other leukocytes to sites of tissue injury or infection and stimulating their activity. Beyond its pivotal role in innate immune responses, CXCL8 promotes angiogenesis and contributes to the pathogenesis of cancers, notably by driving neovascularization and tumor cell survival[1]. CXCL8 exerts its effects through binding to G protein-coupled receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2, both expressed on the surface of target immune and non-immune cells. Elevated CXCL8 levels are observed in a wide range of diseases marked by inflammation, infection, or tumorigenesis. Although CXCL8 is considered an attractive therapeutic target, clinical translation remains challenging due to its role in host defense and the complexity of chemokine networks[1][2][3].

Other names

Interleukin 8IL-8Chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 8CXCL8Monocyte-derived neutrophil chemotactic factor (MDNCF)T cell chemotactic factorNeutrophil-activity peptide 1Beta-thromboglobulin-like protein

Drugs may act as **inhibitors or antagonists** of CXCL8 (IL-8) activity Blockage of CXCR1 and/or CXCR2 (IL-8 receptors), thereby preventing pro-inflammatory and angiogenic signaling pathways Downregulation of IL-8 production through anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone)