Beta-defensin 104 (DEFB104A)

Beta-defensin 104 (DEFB104A) is a short, cationic antimicrobial peptide belonging to the beta-defensin family, primarily expressed in epithelial and myeloid cells[1][3][5]. It is encoded by the DEFB104A gene located in a defensin-rich cluster on human chromosome 8p23[1][3][5]. Beta-defensins are characterized structurally by their conserved cysteine residues, which enable the formation of three disulfide bonds, conferring stability to the core β-sheet structure[6]. Beta-defensin 104 acts by disrupting microbial membranes, leading to broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and some viruses[6]. These peptides are considered important components of the innate immune system, and their expression can be both constitutive and inducible in response to infection or inflammatory signaling[4][6]. Beta-defensin 104 may have synergistic activity with lysozyme and other defensins in enhancing host defense[5]. Two identical gene copies, DEFB104A and DEFB104B, exist in humans due to a chromosomal duplication event[1][3][5]. The role of beta-defensin 104 in disease is still being elucidated, but altered expression or gene variants may contribute to disorders involving infection or dysregulated immune responses[5]. There are currently no known drugs directly targeting DEFB104A, and no established biomarkers based on this peptide; however, its antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties make it a potential therapeutic target for infectious or inflammatory diseases[4][6].

Other names

Beta-defensin 104DEFB104ADEFB104DEFB104BDEFB4BD-4DEFB-4hBD-4Beta-defensin 4Defensin, beta 104defensin, beta 4

Disruption of microbial membranes, Synergistic effect with lysozyme and other defensins, Immunomodulatory action