Beta-defensin 105A (DEFB105A)

Beta-defensin 105A (DEFB105A) is a small, cationic, cysteine-rich antimicrobial peptide that belongs to the beta-defensin family, exhibiting broad-spectrum activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses. It is characterized structurally by three disulfide bonds and typically consists of 51 amino acids (~5.8 kDa). DEFB105A is mainly expressed in the testis and epididymis; like other beta-defensins, it plays an important role in the innate immune system by causing microbial membrane destabilization and lysis, and it can also modulate adaptive immune responses via chemotactic effects on various immune cells. Distinctively, DEFB105A has a unique gene structure with three exons and two introns, unlike most beta-defensin genes. There is no direct evidence supporting current use of DEFB105A as a therapeutic target or biomarker, nor are there any known approved drugs acting on this molecule.

Other names

Beta-defensin 105DEFB105Beta-defensin 5BD-5DEFB-5Defensin, beta 5beta-defensin 105AcBD-5Defensin, beta 105Defensin, beta 105B

Disrupts microbial cell membranes, leading to lysis; Chemotactic activity for immune cells (monocytes, T-lymphocytes, dendritic cells, mast cells)