CXC chemokine receptor 7 (CXCR7)

CXC chemokine receptor 7 (CXCR7), also known as ACKR3 and RDC1, is a seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that primarily binds the chemokines CXCL12 (SDF-1α) and CXCL11 (I-TAC). Unlike classical GPCRs, CXCR7 does not signal through G proteins but instead modulates cellular responses via alternative mechanisms. It acts as a scavenger receptor, internalizing and degrading its ligands, and recruits β-arrestin upon ligand binding, leading to activation of downstream pathways such as ERK/MAPK signaling. CXCR7 is upregulated in various cancers and plays a role in tumor growth, metastasis, and angiogenesis. It is an active area for drug discovery.

Other names

ACKR3RDC1

β-arrestin recruitment; non-G-protein mediated ERK/MAPK activation