Molecular cloning, functional characterization and mRNA expression analysis of the murine chemokine receptor CCR6 and its specific ligand MIP-3 alpha

We have cloned the murine CCR6 receptor and its ligand, the beta-chemokine mMIP-3 alpha. Calcium mobilization assays performed with mCCR6 transfectant s showed significant responses upon addition of mMIP-3 alpha. Murine MIP-3 alpha RNA is expressed in thymus, small intestine and colon, whereas mCCR6 RNA is expressed in spleen and lymph nodes. RT-PCR analysis of FACS-sorted lymphoid and antigen presenting cell subsets showed mCCR6 expression mainly in B cells, CD8(-) splenic dendritic cells and CD4(+) T cells, The cloning and functional characterization of the mCCR6 and mMIP-3 alpha will allow t he study of the role of these proteins in mouse models of inflammation and immunity. (C) 1998 Federation of European Biochemical Societies.