Description
Stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1) is a chemoattractant that is effective on T-lymphocytes and monocytes, but not on neutrophils. It activates the C-X-C chemokine receptor CXCR4, causing a rapid and temporary increase in intracellular calcium ion levels and promoting chemotaxis. During embryonic development, SDF-1 plays a role in the formation of reproductive organs by guiding the migration and differentiation of embryonic stem cells. In mouse embryos, for instance, SDF-1 facilitates the migration of primordial germ cells (PGCs) to the gonads