Increased Chemokine Receptor Expression and the Infiltration of Lymphoid Organs

Abstract

Lymphocyte passage across endothelium into lymph nodes and Peyer's patches is a multistep process that involves selectin-supported rolling, followed by a triggering event, and then firm integrin-mediated adhesion. The combined actions of adhesion molecules and chemokines largely determine the migratory behavior of lymphocytes. Chemokines are known to mediate their effects through 7 transmembrane-domain G-protein-coupled receptors. Here, we review the role of chemokines and their receptors in lymphocyte's migration into lymphoid organs.

Key Words:

• chemokines
• chemokine receptors
• lymphocytes
• adult T-cell leukemia
• lymphoma
• chronic lymphocytic leukemia