Monocyte Chemotactic Protein-3 (MCP-3), also known as Chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 7 (CCL7), is a chemokine that plays a crucial role in the immune system by attracting monocytes, neutrophils, and other immune cells to sites of inflammation. It is part of the CC chemokine family, which is characterized by two adjacent cysteine residues near the amino terminus. MCP-3 is produced by various cell types, including macrophages and certain tumor cell lines .
Recombinant MCP-3 (CCL7) can be prepared using several methods. One common approach involves the expression of the protein in Escherichia coli (E. coli) cells. The gene encoding MCP-3 is cloned into an expression vector, which is then introduced into E. coli cells. The bacteria are cultured, and the protein is expressed as a fusion protein. The fusion protein is then purified using affinity chromatography techniques. The purified protein is often lyophilized for storage and reconstituted in sterile water or other aqueous solutions before use .
MCP-3 (CCL7) interacts with several G protein-coupled receptors, including CCR1, CCR2, and CCR3. These interactions trigger a cascade of intracellular signaling events that lead to the chemotaxis of immune cells. The biological activity of MCP-3 can be assessed using various assays, such as chemotaxis assays, which measure the ability of the protein to attract immune cells. Additionally, the protein’s purity and structural integrity can be analyzed using techniques like SDS-PAGE and RP-HPLC .
MCP-3 (CCL7) is involved in various physiological and pathological processes. It plays a significant role in the immune response by recruiting monocytes and other immune cells to sites of infection or injury. This chemokine is also implicated in the progression of chronic inflammatory diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and kidney disease. By attracting macrophages and monocytes, MCP-3 amplifies inflammatory processes and contributes to disease progression .