Key functional receptor for CCL2 but can also bind CCL7, and CCL12 (PubMed:23408426, PubMed:38157855, PubMed:8048929, PubMed:8146186). Also transduces signaling mediated by CCL13 (PubMed:38157855). Its binding with CCL2 on monocytes and macrophages mediates chemotaxis and migration induction through the activation of the PI3K cascade, the small G protein Rac and lamellipodium protrusion (PubMed:38157855). Also acts as a receptor for the beta-defensin DEFB106A/DEFB106B (PubMed:23938203). Regulates the expression of T-cell inflammatory cytokines and T-cell differentiation, promoting the differentiation of T-cells into T-helper 17 cells (Th17) during inflammation (By similarity). Facilitates the export of mature thymocytes by enhancing directional movement of thymocytes to sphingosine-1-phosphate stimulation and up-regulation of S1P1R expression; signals through the JAK-STAT pathway to regulate FOXO1 activity leading to an increased expression of S1P1R (By similarity). Plays an important role in mediating peripheral nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain (By similarity). Increases NMDA-mediated synaptic transmission in both dopamine D1 and D2 receptor-containing neurons, which may be caused by MAPK/ERK-dependent phosphorylation of GRIN2B/NMDAR2B (By similarity). Mediates the recruitment of macrophages and monocytes to the injury site following brain injury (By similarity). {ECO:0000250|UniProtKB:P51683, ECO:0000269|PubMed:23408426, ECO:0000269|PubMed:23938203, ECO:0000269|PubMed:38157855, ECO:0000269|PubMed:8048929, ECO:0000269|PubMed:8146186, ECO:0000305|PubMed:15995708}. (Microbial infection) Alternative coreceptor with CD4 for HIV-1 infection. . This is the function of CCR2 (C-C motif chemokine receptor 2, ENSG00000121807).