CCR8 (gene)

Chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 8, also known as CCR8, is a is_associated_with::protein which in humans is encoded by the CCR8 is_associated_with::gene. CCR8 has also recently been designated CDw198 (is_associated_with::cluster of differentiation w198).

Function
This gene encodes a member of the beta is_associated_with::chemokine receptor family, which is predicted to be a seven transmembrane protein similar to G protein-coupled receptors. Chemokines and their receptors are important for the migration of various cell types into the inflammatory sites. This receptor protein preferentially expresses in the is_associated_with::thymus. The ligand of the CCR8 is is_associated_with::CCL1. CCL8 also functions as a CCR8 agonist.

Studies of this receptor and its ligands suggested its role in regulation of monocyte chemotaxis and thymic cell is_associated_with::apoptosis. More specifically, this receptor may contribute to the proper positioning of activated is_associated_with::T cells within the antigenic challenge sites and specialized areas of lymphoid tissues. This gene is located at the chemokine receptor gene cluster region.