Interleukin-8: an expanding universe beyond neutrophil chemotaxis and activation

Int J Hematol. 2000 Dec;72(4):391-8.

Abstract

Since the discovery 13 years ago of interleukin (IL)-8 as a potent neutrophil chemotactic factor, accumulating evidence has established it as a crucial mediator in neutrophil-dependent acute inflammation. Numerous observations have demonstrated that various types of cells can produce a large amount of IL-8, either in response to various stimuli or constitutively, after malignant transformation. Recent studies of IL-8-mediated signaling have revealed that IL-8 activates a wide range of signaling molecules in a coordinate manner. IL-8 has been proven to have diverse actions on various types of leukocytic and nonleukocytic cells besides neutrophils. The author reviews recent progress in IL-8 signal transduction and biological actions on nonneutrophilic leukocytes, including T lymphocytes, monocytes, and hematopoietic progenitor cells. Potential involvement of IL-8 in viral infections and tumor progression is also discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Communication / drug effects
  • Chemotaxis / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Interleukin-8 / physiology*
  • Leukocytes / drug effects
  • Leukocytes / physiology
  • Neutrophil Activation / drug effects
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects

Substances

  • Interleukin-8