Human β-Defensin (hBD)

Human β-defensins (hBDs) are cationic antimicrobial peptides crucial for innate immunity, primarily produced by epithelial cells and some immune cells. They exhibit antimicrobial activity by disrupting microbial membranes and modulate immune responses by influencing cytokine production and immune cell chemotaxis. hBDs also play a role in wound healing. There are several isoforms, including hBD1, hBD2, hBD3, and hBD4, each with distinct expression patterns and regulatory mechanisms. Production is triggered by pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs) like TLRs and NLRs, leading to activation of transcription factors such as NF-kB and AP-1. Genetic variations within hBD genes can affect peptide function and susceptibility to infections.

Other names

hBD1hBD2hBD3hBD4DEFB1DEFB4

Disruption of microbial membranes; Immunomodulation via cytokine regulation and immune cell recruitment; Promotion of keratinocyte proliferation and migration.