CXCL16 exists in two forms: a transmembrane form and a soluble form. The transmembrane form acts as a scavenger receptor for oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL), while the soluble form functions as a chemoattractant for immune cells, particularly CD8+ T cells . The protein is produced by dendritic cells in lymphoid organs and by cells in the splenic red pulp .
The recombinant human CXCL16 protein is typically expressed in E. coli or HEK293 cells. The protein is purified to a high degree, with a purity of over 95% as determined by SDS-PAGE . The recombinant form is often tagged with a polyhistidine tag to facilitate purification and detection .
CXCL16 plays a multifaceted role in the immune system. It serves as a ligand for the CXCR6 receptor, which is involved in the migration and activation of immune cells . The transmembrane form of CXCL16 acts as a scavenger receptor, binding to oxidized LDL and facilitating its uptake by cells. This function is particularly relevant in the context of atherosclerosis, where the accumulation of oxidized LDL in arterial walls contributes to plaque formation .
The soluble form of CXCL16 acts as a chemoattractant, guiding immune cells to sites of inflammation. This chemokine is particularly effective in attracting CD8+ T cells, which are crucial for the immune response against viral infections and tumors .
CXCL16 has been implicated in various diseases, including atherosclerosis, cancer, and inflammatory conditions. In atherosclerosis, the scavenger receptor function of CXCL16 contributes to the uptake of oxidized LDL, promoting the formation of atherosclerotic plaques . Elevated levels of CXCL16 have been observed in patients with cardiovascular diseases, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for these conditions.
In cancer, CXCL16 and its receptor CXCR6 have been shown to play a role in tumor progression and metastasis. The expression of CXCR6 in non-small cell lung carcinoma supports the metastatic process by modulating metalloproteinases, enzymes that degrade the extracellular matrix and facilitate tumor invasion .
Recombinant human CXCL16 is widely used in research to study its role in immune responses and disease processes. It is used in assays to measure its chemoattractant activity, particularly its ability to attract BaF3 mouse pro-B cells transfected with mouse CXCR6 . The recombinant protein is also used in studies investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying its function as a scavenger receptor and chemoattractant.