CXCL12

CXCL12, also known as stromal cell-derived factor 1 (SDF-1), is a small signaling protein that plays a key role in guiding immune cells and stem cells to specific areas of the body. It acts like a chemical "breadcrumb trail," attracting cells to sites of injury, inflammation, or where new blood vessels are forming. CXCL12 is important for tissue repair, immune responses, and maintaining stem cell communities. It functions by binding to specific receptors on cells, helping coordinate cell movement, growth, and repair processes critical for health and healing.