CCR7, encoded by the CCR7 gene (Entrez Gene ID: 1236), mediates immune cell migration to secondary lymphoid organs via interactions with ligands CCL19 and CCL21 . Recombinant CCR7 retains the native receptor's seven transmembrane domains and signaling capabilities, making it indispensable for in vitro and in vivo studies of immune regulation, cancer metastasis, and drug discovery .
Recombinant CCR7 is expressed in systems like HEK293 cells or virus-like particles (VLPs), ensuring proper folding and post-translational modifications . For example, ACROBiosystems produces full-length CCR7 VLPs that mimic native membrane protein conformation .
Recombinant CCR7 is generated using:
Expression Systems: HEK293 cells (for soluble forms) or VLPs (for membrane-bound forms) .
Tags: Variably tagged (e.g., His, Fc) to facilitate purification and detection .
Storage: Tris-based buffers with glycerol, stable at -80°C .
Ligand Bias: CCL19 induces stronger β-arrestin recruitment and receptor internalization than CCL21 .
G Protein Activation: Both ligands activate Gαi/o proteins, but CCL21 shows weaker potency in calcium mobilization .
Cell-Type Dependency: Signaling outcomes vary across HEK293, U87, and CHO-K1 cells, highlighting context-specific effects .
CCR7 overexpression in tumors (e.g., melanoma, gastric cancer) promotes lymph node metastasis via:
In A375 melanoma cells, CCR7 activation upregulates c-Fos, a metastasis-linked transcription factor .
Central Tolerance: CCR7 guides thymocytes to the thymic medulla for negative selection, preventing autoimmunity .
Dendritic Cell Maturation: CCR7 ligation upregulates MHC-II and co-stimulatory molecules (e.g., B7) .
Autoimmune Diseases: Dysregulated CCR7 signaling correlates with rheumatoid arthritis and scleroderma .
Therapeutic Targeting: CCR7 antagonists (e.g., Cmp2105) show promise in blocking lymph node metastasis .