Mucosae-Associated Epithelial Chemokine (CCL28), also known as MEC, is a CC chemokine that plays a crucial role in mucosal immunity. It is known to bind to chemokine receptors CCR3 and CCR10, facilitating the recruitment of IgA-secreting plasma cells (IgA-ASC) to mucosal tissues . This chemokine is particularly significant in the context of mucosal immunity, where it helps in the defense against pathogens at mucosal surfaces.
CCL28 is selectively expressed in various mucosal tissues, including exocrine glands, trachea, and colon . It is also found in the salivary glands, where it is expressed at high levels . The primary function of CCL28 is to chemoattract IgA-ASC to mucosal sites, such as the large and small intestines, bronchi, mammary glands, and salivary glands . This recruitment is essential for the production of IgA antibodies, which play a critical role in mucosal immunity by neutralizing pathogens and preventing their entry into the body.
Research has shown that CCL28 modulates immunity in the context of HIV infection. It has been observed that CCL28 levels are augmented in the breast milk, plasma, and saliva of HIV-infected and exposed individuals . This increase in CCL28 is associated with a higher concentration of CCR3+ and CCR10+ B lymphocytes in these individuals . Additionally, CCL28 concentration in breast milk has been linked to longer survival in HIV vertically-infected children . These findings suggest that CCL28 plays a significant role in mediating mucosal immunity in HIV exposure and infection.
Given its role in mucosal immunity, CCL28 has been considered for inclusion in mucosal vaccines to prevent infections, such as HIV, by modulating IgA-ASC . The administration of CCL28 has been shown to significantly increase gastrointestinal mucosal IgA-ASC in immunized mice . This indicates that CCL28 could be a valuable component in the development of vaccines aimed at enhancing mucosal immunity.