In:
Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, American Society for Microbiology, Vol. 52, No. 4 ( 2008-04), p. 1407-1412
Abstract:
Innate antifungal defense in Drosophila melanogaster relies on the activation of the Toll molecule and the release of drosomycin, a defensin-like molecule with antifungal properties. Ten human homologues of Toll have been described, with central roles in activation of the innate host defense. In the present study, we report a putative human homologue of the Drosophila -derived drosomycin, designated drosomycin-like defensin (DLD). Synthetic DLD displays a broad spectrum of activity against Aspergillus spp. and other clinically relevant filamentous fungi. These effects are specific for filamentous fungi; no activity has been found against yeasts or gram-positive or gram-negative bacteria. Synthetic DLD also displays immunomodulatory effects on Aspergillus -stimulated cytokine production. In addition, we show the expression of DLD mRNA in several human tissues, particularly in the skin, consistent with its putative role as a defensin against invading microorganisms. This is the first indication of an endogenous human peptide with specific antifungal activity, which is probably central in the defense against infections with molds.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0066-4804
,
1098-6596
DOI:
10.1128/AAC.00155-07
Language:
English
Publisher:
American Society for Microbiology
Publication Date:
2008
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1496156-8
SSG:
12
SSG:
15,3
