Defesins Flashcards
1
Q
what are they
A
small cationic peptides containing both cationic and hydrophobic regions
2
Q
where are they produced
A
by epithelia cells of mucosal surfaces and granule containing luekocytes, including neutrophils, NK cells, and CTLs
3
Q
when are they synthesized
A
stimulated in response to cytokines and microbial produces
4
Q
two kinds of defensins
A
alpha/beta produced by different cell types
5
Q
defensins have
A
direct toxicity to microbes
this includes bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses
6
Q
how do defensins work?
A
directly insert themselves into and disrupting functions of the microbial membranes
7
Q
they can ALSO
A
regulate cells involved in inflammation
