Beta-defensin 103
experimentalAlso known as: Beta-defensin 3, Defensin, beta 103, Defensin-like protein, DEFB103A, DEFB103B, P81534
Beta-defensin 103 (DEFB103A/B), also known as beta-defensin 3, is an antimicrobial peptide primarily expressed in epithelial tissues. Its mechanism of action involves disruption of microbial membranes through electrostatic interactions, leading to pore formation and cell lysis. It exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria (e.g., *Staphylococcus aureus*, *Streptococcus pyogenes*), Gram-negative bacteria (e.g., *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*, *Escherichia coli*), and the yeast *Candida albicans*. Additionally, it may modulate immune responses by acting as a chemoattractant for immune cells. Key research findings from 12 PubMed references indicate that beta-defensin 103 demonstrates potent in vitro activity against multidrug-resistant strains, including methicillin-resistant *S. aureus* (MRSA). Studies also suggest its role in wound healing and epithelial barrier function, with reduced expression observed in inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis. Its salt-sensitive activity and potential synergy with other antimicrobial agents have been explored, though in vivo efficacy remains under investigation. Clinical relevance is currently limited to experimental applications, with no approved therapeutic use. Its potential as a topical antimicrobial agent for skin infections or as an adjunct in chronic wound management is under preclinical evaluation. Challenges include stability, delivery, and cost of synthesis. For research purposes only — not medical advice.
Key data
MRIHYLLFALLFLFLVPVPGHGGIINTLQKYYCRVRGGRCAVLSCLPKEEQIGKCSTRGRKCCRRKKMechanism of action
Exhibits antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria S.aureus and S.pyogenes, Gram-negative bacteria P.aeruginosa and E.coli and the yeast C.albicans. Kills multiresistant S.aureus and vancomycin-resistant E.faecium. No significant hemolytic activity was observed
Research & studies
Low DEFB103 copy number was associated with increased sperm motility across all bulls (p < 0.05).; Sperm from low CN bulls showed higher binding to oviductal epithelium, while high CN increased sperm membrane fluidity in vitro (p < 0.05).; Uterine transcriptomic analysis post-insemination identified 58 differentially expressed genes (FDR < 0.1) involved in sperm migration, immune signaling, and chemotaxis.; DEFB103 CNV may contribute to pregnancy outcomes by affecting both sperm function and the uterine response to bull sperm.
cBD103 is expressed in nasal epithelium, nares, and olfactory regions, but absent in goblet cells.; The G23 mutation does not appreciably change antimicrobial activity against tested microorganisms.; Both cBD103 forms cause membrane blebbing, condensation, and cell wall lysis in E. coli and S. aureus.; cBD103 G23 increases ERK1/2 activation and cAMP via melanocortin-4 receptor as a weak allosteric agonist.
CBD103 gene has a 3-basepair deletion allele and copy-number variation (2-4 copies per diploid genome).; Golden and Labrador retrievers uniquely encode the CBD103 G23 variant allele.; Recombinant CBD103 and its variant show potent antimicrobial activity against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius.; CBD103 expression in atopic dermatitis skin is similar to healthy controls, unlike reduced human β-defensin 3 expression.
Frequently asked questions
What is Beta-defensin 103?
Beta-defensin 103 (DEFB103A/B), also known as beta-defensin 3, is an antimicrobial peptide primarily expressed in epithelial tissues. Its mechanism of action involves disruption of microbial membranes through electrostatic interactions, leading to pore formation and cell lysis. It exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial
How does Beta-defensin 103 work?
Exhibits antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive bacteria S.aureus and S.pyogenes, Gram-negative bacteria P.aeruginosa and E.coli and the yeast C.albicans. Kills multiresistant S.aureus and vancomycin-resistant E.faecium. No significant hemolytic activity was observed
What is the research status of Beta-defensin 103?
Beta-defensin 103 is currently classified as experimental, with 12 research references on record. This is for research purposes only and is not medical advice.
What is the molecular weight of Beta-defensin 103?
Beta-defensin 103 has a molecular weight of approximately 7697 g/mol.
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