CXCL2: a key player in the tumor microenvironment and inflammatory diseases

CXCL2 (C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 2), a constituent of the C-X-C chemokine subfamily, serves as a powerful chemotactic factor for neutrophils, facilitating leukocyte recruitment and movement while initiating an inflammatory response. Recent investigations have demonstrated the pivotal involvement of CXCL2 in carcinogenesis. Within the tumor microenvironment, CXCL2 modulates cellular activity primarily via its interaction with the CXCR2 receptor. The activation of signaling pathways, including ERK/MAPK, NF-κB/MAPK, PI3K/AKT, and JAK/STAT3, highlights CXCL2's inclination to promote tumorigenesis. Furthermore, the role of CXCL2 encompasses inflammatory conditions like lung inflammation, atherosclerosis, and obesity. This article examines the structural characteristics, biological roles, and molecular foundation of CXCL2 in carcinogenesis and inflammatory disorders.