← Genes & pathways

Gene & pathway reference · FROM DR. PURSER’S TEACHING

CXCL8

CXCL8 is the gene for IL-8, a chemokine involved in recruiting and activating neutrophils. IL-8 is the protein nickname; CXCL8 is the gene name a DNA report may use.

Based on teaching by Dan Purser, MD. How we prepare these guides

Updated Sep 23, 2026 · Educational reference

THE TEACHING CONNECTION

IL-8: bringing neutrophils to the response

IL-8: bringing neutrophils to the response

CXCL8 is the gene for IL-8, a chemokine involved in recruiting and activating neutrophils. IL-8 is the protein nickname; CXCL8 is the gene name a DNA report may use.

Putting the pieces together

Dr. Purser connects this recruitment pathway with renal and vascular inflammatory injury. The lesson is to ask where inflammation is occurring and why, because infection and other inflammatory triggers can involve the same signal. A DNA variant and an elevated IL-8 protein result are different findings.

Where the VARS Triad and MTHFR Daily fit

If you are exploring homocysteine or cytokines, Dr. Purser may discuss MTHFR Daily and the VARS Triad: VARS Glutathione, VARS SOD, and VARS Catalase. He gives glutathione a central place in his approach to antioxidant support.

A gene result alone cannot tell you that you need these products or that they will treat a condition. Review your current results, medicines, goals, and tolerance with your clinician before choosing a product or dose.

A question to bring to your visit

Are we discussing a DNA result, a protein measurement or a clinically identified inflammatory process?

Variant lookup

These names can help you find an entry on your original genetic report. Seeing a name here does not tell you whether it affects your health or whether you need treatment.

Names you may see

IL-8 · Interleukin 8