Human C-C Chemokine Receptor Type 2 (CCR2) Protein

Background

C-C Chemokine Receptor Type 2 (CCR2) is a critical G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that binds C-C chemokines, primarily CCL2 (MCP-1) and related ligands such as CCL7 and CCL8. CCR2 is expressed on monocytes, macrophages, T cells, and dendritic cells, playing a central role in monocyte recruitment to sites of inflammation and tissue damage. Upon binding its ligands, CCR2 triggers intracellular signaling pathways such as MAPK, JAK/STAT, and PI3K, leading to cell activation, chemotaxis, and cytokine production. CCR2 and its ligand CCL2 are vital in the immune response to infections, promoting pathogen clearance, but their dysregulation is implicated in various inflammatory diseases, including atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, and chronic kidney disease. In cancer, CCR2 contributes to tumor progression by recruiting tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), which promote angiogenesis, immune suppression, and metastasis. Targeting CCR2 has emerged as a promising strategy for modulating inflammatory responses and treating cancers, with CCR2 antagonists in development for conditions like fibrosis, autoimmunity, and tumor microenvironment modulation. Research into CCR2 signaling continues to elucidate its role in monocyte biology, chronic inflammation, and immune regulation, positioning it as a key therapeutic target for inflammatory diseases and cancer therapies.