Chemokine that acts as a ligand for both CX3CR1 and integrins ITGAV:ITGB3 and ITGA4:ITGB1 (  ). The CX3CR1-CX3CL1 signaling exerts distinct functions in different tissue compartments, such as immune response, inflammation, cell adhesion and chemotaxis ( , ). Regulates leukocyte adhesion and migration processes at the endothelium (, ). Can activate integrins in both a CX3CR1-dependent and CX3CR1-independent manner (, ). In the presence of CX3CR1, activates integrins by binding to the classical ligand-binding site (site 1) in integrins (, ). In the absence of CX3CR1, binds to a second site (site 2) in integrins which is distinct from site 1 and enhances the binding of other integrin ligands to site 1 (, ).
The soluble form is chemotactic for T-cells and monocytes, but not for neutrophils.
The membrane-bound form promotes adhesion of those leukocytes to endothelial cells.
(Microbial infection) Mediates the cytoadherence of erythrocytes infected with parasite P.falciparum (strain 3D7) with endothelial cells by interacting with P.falciparum CBP1 and CBP2 expressed at the surface of erythrocytes . The adhesion prevents the elimination of infected erythrocytes by the spleen (Probable).
Subcellular locations: Cell membrane
Subcellular locations: Secreted
Expressed in the seminal plasma, endometrial fluid and follicular fluid (at protein level). Small intestine, colon, testis, prostate, heart, brain, lung, skeletal muscle, kidney and pancreas. Most abundant in the brain and heart.