Growth-regulated oncogene alpha (GRO-α)

Growth-regulated oncogene alpha (GRO-α) is a small secreted chemokine belonging to the CXC subfamily, best known as CXC chemokine ligand 1 (CXCL1)[3]. It consists of 73–74 amino acids and plays a key role in chemotaxis of neutrophils and modulation of the inflammatory response[3]. GRO-α/CXCL1 is highly inducible by cytokines and growth factors such as IL-1, TNF-α, and PDGF in various cells, including monocytes, fibroblasts, epithelial cells, astrocytes, and tumor cells[3][1]. Functionally, it stimulates oligodendrocyte precursor proliferation in synergy with platelet-derived growth factor and regulates local glial proliferation in the CNS[1]. GRO-α is highly upregulated in multiple cancer types and associated with poor prognosis; it promotes tumor proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis—mainly acting through the receptor CXCR2, a G protein-coupled receptor[2]. Its levels are also elevated in inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, and it has been evaluated as both a therapeutic target (via receptor antagonists) and a biomarker in oncology and immunology[2].

Other names

CXCL1GRO-alphaGROaMGSA (Melanoma Growth Stimulating Activity alpha)NAP-3SCYB1

Inhibition of CXCL1/CXCR2 interaction reduces neutrophil recruitment and inflammatory response. Modulation of angiogenesis by targeting downstream signaling (JAK/STAT, MAPK). Blocking GRO-α/CXCL1 can inhibit tumor cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis.