Exodus 2 Human

Exodus-2 was independently discovered by three research groups from the EST (Expressed Sequence Tag) database . It shares 21-33% identity with other CC chemokines . The protein contains the four conserved cysteines characteristic of β chemokines, plus two additional cysteines in its unusually long carboxyl terminal domain . The theoretical molecular weight of CCL21 is approximately 12.2 kDa .

CCL21 is expressed in lymph nodes, certain endothelial cells, the spleen, and the appendix . It is known to chemoattract T and B lymphocytes, as well as dendritic cells, to lymph nodes . This chemotactic activity is crucial for the proper functioning of the adaptive immune response. Additionally, CCL21 inhibits hematopoiesis, the process by which blood cells are formed .

CCL21 signals through the C-C chemokine receptor-7 (CCR7) . This interaction is essential for the migration of immune cells to lymphoid tissues, where they can initiate and regulate immune responses. CCL21 also interacts with the atypical chemokine receptor ACKR4, recruiting beta-arrestin to ACKR4 .

Exodus-2 has been implicated in various clinical conditions. For instance, it plays a role in the migration of lymphocytes and dendritic cells in ulcerative colitis . It may also be involved in the metastasis of pancreatic cancer stem cells . Due to its significant role in immune cell trafficking, CCL21 is a potential target for therapeutic interventions in immune-related diseases and cancer.

Human recombinant CCL21 is produced using various expression systems, including E. coli . The recombinant protein is typically lyophilized and can be reconstituted in sterile distilled water or aqueous buffer containing 0.1% BSA . It is used in research to study its biological activity and potential therapeutic applications.