Gene expression of RANTES

The RANTES gene is located on human chromosome 17. Both human and mouse RANTES genes display a three exon-two intron organization common to the C-C chemokine family This chapter focuses on techniques used to study the molecular mechanisms governing RANTES gene expression in various cell types, including T cells, macrophages, endothelial cells, epithelial cells, and fibroblasts. The regulation of RANTES mRNA production in interstitial and immune cell types, along with its functional properties; afford it an important role in models of the induction and propagation of the inflammatory response. These techniques have expanded understanding of the biochemical mechanisms underlying the biology of RANTES gene expression, the regulation of inflammatory processes, as well as aspects of peripheral T-cell development.