An essential amino acid induces epithelial β-defensin

被引:91
作者
Fehlbaum, P
Rao, M
Zasloff, M
Anderson, GM
机构
[1] Magainin Res Inst, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462 USA
[2] Magainin Pharmaceut Inc, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462 USA
关键词
D O I
10.1073/pnas.220424597
中图分类号
O [数理科学和化学]; P [天文学、地球科学]; Q [生物科学]; N [自然科学总论];
学科分类号
07 ; 0710 ; 09 ;
摘要
Antimicrobial peptides constitute an important component of the mammalian innate immune response. Several types of antimicrobial peptides. including the beta -defensins, are produced at epithelial surfaces in response to infectious threats. Here we show that a class of small molecules, including L-isoleucine and several of its analogs, can specifically induce epithelial beta -defensin expression. This induction is transcriptional in nature and involves activation of the NF-kappaB/rel family of trans-activating factors. We hypothesize that these substances represent unique markers for the presence of pathogens and are recognized by innate immune pattern recognition receptors. Isoleucine or its analogs ultimately may have clinical utility as novel immunostimulants that could bolster the barrier defenses of mucosal surfaces.
引用
收藏
页码:12723 / 12728
页数:6
相关论文
共 43 条