Stromal cell-derived factor 1 (CXCL12)

Chemoattractant active on T-lymphocytes and monocytes but not neutrophils. Activates the C-X-C chemokine receptor CXCR4 to cause a rapid and transient rise in the level of intracellular calcium ions and chemotaxis.

Binding to cell surface proteoglycans seems to inhibit formation of SDF-1-alpha(3-67) and thus to preserve activity on local websites. Also binds to atypical chemokine receptor ACKR3, which triggers the beta-arrestin pathway and acts as a scavenger receptor for SDF-1.