Description
CCL21, also known as 6Ckine, TCA-4, SLC, Exodus-2, and A21, is a homeostatic chemokine that signals through CCR7 or CXCR3. CCL21 is constitutively presented on initial lymphatic vessels, high endothelial venules (HEV), and lymph node dendritic cells (DC) where it promotes the docking of DC to lymphatic vessels and the retention of T cells by lymph node DC, resulting in T cell priming for activation. Its upregulation during chronic inflammation or tissue damage promotes fibrosis, inflammatory cytokine production, and neuropathic pain. The soluble chemokine is elevated in rheumatoid arthritis synovial fluid and in the serum of coronary artery disease patients