CCR8 is a GPCR that binds primarily to the chemokine I-309 (CCL1) (Roos et al., 1997). CCR8 is expressed primarily on Th2 cells although its functional role in T cell recruitment to sites of allergic inflammation is controversial (Chensue et al., 2001; Goya et al., 2003). CCR8+ T-cells are abundant in skin, and rare or absent in the GI tract and peripheral blood, indicating a role in skin-homing of T-cells (Schaerli et al., 2004). In addition, monocyte-derived dendritic cells express CCR8 and utilize CCR8 during mobilization from skin to the lymph node (Qu et al., 2004). Studies of this receptor and its ligands suggested its role in regulation of monocyte chemotaxis and thymic cell apoptosis. More specifically, this receptor may contribute to the proper positioning of activated T cells within the antigenic challenge sites and specialized areas of lymphoid tissues. This gene is located at the chemokine receptor gene cluster region. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]