Macrophage inflammatory protein 3 alpha (MIP-3α)

Macrophage inflammatory protein 3 alpha (MIP-3α; also known as CCL20 or LARC) is a small secreted chemokine belonging to the CC chemokine family[1][4][6]. It consists of 70 amino acids and features a typical chemokine structure, including three β strands and a C-terminal α helix, stabilized by two disulfide bonds[1][3][7]. MIP-3α is primarily produced by mucosal and skin epithelial cells in response to inflammatory stimuli; its expression is downregulated by anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10[4]. It functions as a chemoattractant for memory T cells, natural killer cells, immature dendritic cells, and Th17 cells, serving a central role in both innate and adaptive immunity[1][2][4]. Its only known receptor is CCR6, a G protein-coupled receptor[1][3][4]. Beyond chemotaxis, MIP-3α exhibits direct antimicrobial activity against bacteria such as E. coli and S. aureus, and moderate antiviral properties[1][3]. MIP-3α/CCL20 levels are associated with disease states including cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and HIV infection, and may serve as a biomarker of immune activity in certain conditions[1][5].

Other names

CCL20LARC (liver and activation-regulated chemokine)Macrophage inflammatory protein-3α

Drugs targeting this molecule would typically act by blocking its interaction with CCR6 (chemokine receptor 6), disrupting lymphocyte and dendritic cell trafficking. Potential immunomodulation or suppression of chronic inflammatory signals.