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Interleukin-8 (IL-8)

Interleukin 8 is a chemokine produced by macrophages and other cell types such as epithelial cells, airway smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells. 

Endothelial cells store IL-8 in their storage vesicles, the Weibel-Palade bodies.

The interleukin-8 protein is encoded by the CXCL8 gene.

IL-8 is initially produced as a precursor peptide of 99 amino acids which then undergoes cleavage to create several active IL-8 isoforms.

There are many receptors on the surface membrane capable of binding IL-8.

The  most frequently studied types are the G protein-coupled serpentine receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2. 

Expression and affinity for IL-8 differs between the two receptors (CXCR1 > CXCR2). 

IL-8 is secreted and is an important mediator of the immune reaction in the innate immune system response.

IL-8 attracts neutrophils to a site of injury where the cells removed damage and inflamed keratinocyte skin cells in psoriasis.

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