Defensins and cathelicidins in inflammatory lung disease: beyond antimicrobial activity. (20th March 2006)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hiemstra, P.S.
• Is Part Of: Biochemical Society transactions. Volume 34:Number 2(2006)
• Page Start: 276
• Page End: 278
• Publication Date: 2006-03-20
• Subjects: antimicrobial peptide -- epithelial cell -- inflammatory lung disease -- innate immunity -- respiratory infection; Biochemistry -- Congresses; 572
• DOI: 10.1042/BST0340276
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0300-5127

Abstract

Abstract : Innate immunity provides an effective first line of defence against infections. This is of particular importance in the lung, an organ that is exposed to a large number of pathogens that are inhaled. Antimicrobial peptides play an important role in the defence against these pathogens as effector molecules of innate immunity. These peptides are mainly produced by phagocytes and epithelial cells, and kill a wide range of micro-organisms: Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, fungi and (enveloped) viruses. However, it is increasingly evident that these peptides not only act as endogenous antibiotics, but also display a range of other functions, including activities that are involved in regulating immune responses and inflammation, and wound repair. In this review, these activities are highlighted and their role in inflammatory lung disorders is discussed.