Atypical Chemokine Receptor 4 (ACKR4) Antibody

Background

ACKR4 is a non-signaling chemokine receptor that acts as a scavenger receptor for homeostatic chemokines, including CCL19, CCL21, and CXCL13, which are critical for lymphoid tissue organization and immune cell trafficking. By internalizing and degrading its ligands, ACKR4 modulates chemokine gradients and prevents excessive immune cell recruitment, contributing to immune homeostasis. It is predominantly expressed in lymphatic endothelial cells, thymic epithelial cells, and certain stromal cells, where it regulates the migration and positioning of T cells, dendritic cells, and other immune cells. ACKR4 plays a key role in T-cell development, particularly in guiding thymocytes during positive and negative selection in the thymus. Dysregulation of ACKR4 has been implicated in autoimmune diseases, inflammatory conditions, and tumor metastasis, where altered chemokine gradients can lead to immune cell mislocalization and dysregulated immune responses. Its regulatory role in chemokine biology underscores ACKR4’s importance in maintaining immune balance and preventing pathological inflammation.