C-C chemokine receptor type 7

C-C chemokine receptor type 7 is a is_associated_with::protein that in humans is encoded by the CCR7 is_associated_with::gene. Two ligands have been identified for this receptor: the chemokines (C-C motif) ligand 19 (is_associated_with::CCL19/ELC) and (C-C motif) ligand 21 (is_associated_with::CCL21).

CCR7 has also recently been designated CD197 (is_associated_with::cluster of differentiation 197).

Function
The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the is_associated_with::G protein-coupled receptor family. This receptor was identified as a gene induced by the is_associated_with::Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and is thought to be a mediator of EBV effects on is_associated_with::B lymphocytes. This receptor is expressed in various lymphoid tissues and activates B and T lymphocytes. It has been shown to control the migration of memory T cells home to secondary lymphoid organs, such as lymph nodes, as well as stimulate dendritic cell maturation.

Clinical significance
CCR7 is expressed by various cancer cells, such as nonsmall lung cancer, gastric cancer and oesophageal cancer. Expression of CCR7 by cancer cells is linked with metastasis to lymph nodes.