Human Interleukin 8
Also known as: CXCL8, GCP-1, IL-8, Monocyte-derived neutrophil chemotactic factor, NAP-1, Neutrophil-activating protein 1
Summary
Human Interleukin-8 (IL-8, CXCL8) is an 8 kDa CXC chemokine produced by macrophages, epithelial cells, and other cell types in response to inflammatory stimuli. It is a primary neutrophil chemoattractant and activator. IL-8 itself is not used therapeutically; rather, it is a research target, and its inhibitors/antagonists are under clinical investigation for inflammatory diseases, cancer, and COVID-19.
Mechanism of Action
Binds and activates CXCR1 and CXCR2 G-protein-coupled receptors on neutrophils and other immune cells, promoting chemotaxis, degranulation, respiratory burst, and angiogenesis. Acts as a potent pro-inflammatory mediator recruiting neutrophils to sites of infection or tissue injury.
Routes of Administration
No administration routes recorded yet.
Goals & Uses
- Research biomarker for inflammationBiomarker / DiagnosticsHigh
- Therapeutic target in oncologyAnti CancerModerate
- Wound healing / angiogenesis researchTissue RepairLow
- Therapeutic target for inflammatory diseasesAnti InflammatoryModerate
Contraindications
- Not applicable as therapeutic agentGeneralHigh
Adverse Effects
- Pro-inflammatory cytokine storm contributionImmunologicalUnknown
- Neutrophil-mediated tissue damageImmunologicalUnknown
- Promotion of tumor angiogenesisOncologicalUnknown
Drug Interactions
- Anti-IL-8 monoclonal antibodies (e.g., BMS-986253)Low
- CXCR1/CXCR2 antagonists (e.g., reparixin, navarixin)Low
Population Constraints
- Not for therapeutic use in any populationGeneral PopulationAbsolute
Regulatory Status
- European UnionUnapprovedNot approved by EMA as a therapeutic. Research and investigational use only.
- United StatesUnapprovedNot approved by FDA as a therapeutic. Used as a research reagent and biomarker. Anti-IL-8 therapies are in investigational trials.
- United KingdomUnapprovedNot approved by MHRA as a therapeutic. Research and biomarker use only.
IL-8 (CXCL8) is not approved as a therapeutic agent in any jurisdiction. It is used as a biomarker and research tool. Anti-IL-8 antibodies (e.g., BMS-986253/HuMax-IL8) and CXCR1/CXCR2 antagonists targeting this pathway are in clinical trials.
Evidence & Sources
No sources recorded yet.