This gene encodes a protein that is a member of the CXC subfamily of chemokines. Chemokines, which recruit and activate leukocytes, are classified by function (inflammatory or homeostatic) or by structure. This protein is proposed to bind the G-protein coupled receptor chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 2 to recruit neutrophils, to promote angiogenesis and to remodel connective tissues. This protein is thought to play a role in cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion.