Defensin beta 131C pseudogene (DEFB131C)

Defensin beta 131C pseudogene (DEFB131C) is a non-functional, pseudogenized member of the beta-defensin family. Beta-defensins are known for their antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and chemotactic properties and are part of the innate immune system[1][4][5][6]. While related beta-defensin genes such as DEFB131A encode active antimicrobial peptides involved in host defense and immune modulation[2][3], DEFB131C does not encode a protein and is not implicated in any biological function, disease processes, or drug interactions. Additional context about beta-defensins (functional family members): - Beta-defensins are small (~4-6 kDa), cationic peptides rich in cysteine, found in epithelial tissues and leukocytes, and play important roles in antimicrobial defense by disrupting microbial membranes, immune cell recruitment, and immunomodulation[1][4][5][6][7]. - Functional defensins (such as DEFB131A and DEFB131B) can be upregulated during infection and promote chemokine and cytokine secretion through pathways such as TLR2/NF-κB/p38MAPK[3]. However, this does not pertain to the DEFB131C pseudogene. Summary clarification: DEFB131C is not an active target or protein—it is a pseudogene, meaning it has no established function, drug interaction, or direct role in disease, and is not used as a therapeutic target[2]. Any references to beta-defensin function pertain to the active members of the family, not the C pseudogene.

Other names

Defensin beta 131C pseudogeneDEFB131C