Alpha defensin
Alpha Defensin
Alpha defensin (pronounced: al-fuh de-fen-sin) is a type of antimicrobial peptide found in the immune system of humans and other mammals.
Etymology
The term "defensin" is derived from the word "defense," reflecting the peptide's role in the body's defense against microbial infections. The prefix "alpha" is used to distinguish this group of defensins from other types, such as beta defensins and theta defensins.
Function
Alpha defensins are small proteins that are part of the innate immune system, the body's first line of defense against pathogens. They are produced by neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, and some types of epithelial cells. Alpha defensins have antimicrobial activity against a broad range of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
Related Terms
- Antimicrobial peptide
- Beta defensin
- Theta defensin
- Neutrophil
- Epithelial cell
- Pathogen
- Microorganism
- Bacteria
- Fungi
- Viruses
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alpha defensin
- Wikipedia's article - Alpha defensin
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