CXCL13-CXCR5 axis：regulation in inflammatory diseases and cancer

Chemokine C-X-C motif ligand 13 (CXCL13), originally identified as a B-cell chemokine, leads to the homing of B cells and follicular helper T cells and plays an important role in the immune system. The interaction between CXCL13 and its receptor, the G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) CXCR5, contributes to the formation of lymphoid follicle. The CXCL13-CXCR5 axis makes vital function to build a signaling network that regulates not only normal organisms but also the development of many diseases. However, the precise action mechanism remains unclear. In this review, we discussed the functional mechanisms of the CXCL13-CXCR5 axis under normal conditions, with special focus on its association with several diseases, such as inflammatory diseases and cancer. This axis exerts a role in promoting or inhibiting the development of these disease. At the end, for certain refractory diseases, we focus on the diagnostic and therapeutic role of CXCL13-CXCR5 axis. In particular, it aims to improve disease conditions and prolong survival by targeting various targets in this axis.