Chemokines and diseases.

Chemokines are a group of small, pro-inflammatory molecules first described for their pivotal role in the mobilization of specific leukocyte subsets towards sites of inflammation and their activation once they arrive. They have now emerged as key regulators in the development, differentiation and anatomic distribution of inflammatory cells. Chemokines also orchestrate both the innate immune response and antigen specific immunity through their coordination of dendritic cells and lymphocytes. Due to their vast functional responsibilities, they are linked to the pathogenesis of many seemingly unrelated diseases that include HIV infection, cancer, atherosclerosis, autoimmune diseases, graft rejection and dermatological disorders. This review focuses on the physiology of chemokines and their significant roles in the pathogenesis and progression of major diseases.