Interleukin 8 (IL-8), also known as CXCL8, is a pro-inflammatory molecule belonging to the CXC chemokine family. The precursor form of IL-8 is cleaved into several mature isoforms (including 72 aa and 77 aa) and is secreted by several type of cells, especially monocytes and endothelial cells, upon pro-inflammatory stimulation. IL-8 signals through the CXCR1 and CXCR2 receptors, chemoattracts and activates granulocytes, predominantly neutrophils, T cells, and plays also an angiogenic role. Overexpression of IL-8 can lead to epithelial damage and injury of the airway tissues.
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