ELR-positive CXC chemokine (ELR+ CXC chemokine) (ELR+ CXC chemokine)

ELR-positive CXC chemokines are a specific subgroup of the CXC chemokine family defined by the presence of a conserved Glutamic acid-Leucine-Arginine (ELR) tripeptide motif at the N-terminus [12]. This group includes several potent inflammatory mediators, most notably Interleukin-8 (CXCL8), as well as CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL3, CXCL5, CXCL6, and CXCL7 [13]. These chemokines primarily exert their biological effects by binding to and activating the G protein-coupled receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2, which are highly expressed on neutrophils [14]. Their main functions involve the recruitment and activation of neutrophils to sites of injury or infection and the promotion of angiogenesis [14]. In various diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), psoriasis, and many types of cancer, the overproduction of ELR+ chemokines leads to excessive tissue damage and supports tumor growth and metastasis [15]. Therapeutic strategies targeting this group include the development of monoclonal antibodies to neutralize specific ligands like IL-8 or small molecule antagonists that block the CXCR1 and CXCR2 receptors [16].

Other names

Neutrophil-activating chemokinesAngiogenic CXC chemokinesELR+ chemokinesCXCL8-like chemokines

Neutralization of ELR+ ligands to prevent receptor binding or competitive antagonism of the CXCR1 and CXCR2 receptors to block downstream signaling pathways [16].