Antimicrobial peptides in human skin disease. (1/3)
The skin continuously encounters microbial pathogens. To defend against this, cells of the epidermis and dermis have evolved several innate strategies to prevent infection. Antimicrobial peptides are one of the primary mechanisms used by the skin in the early stages of immune defense. In general, antimicrobial peptides have broad antibacterial activity against gram-positive and negative bacteria and also show antifungal and antiviral activity. The antimicrobial activity of most peptides occurs as a result of unique structural characteristics that enable them to disrupt the microbial membrane while leaving human cell membranes intact. However, antimicrobial peptides also act on host cells to stimulate cytokine production, cell migration, proliferation, maturation, and extracellular matrix synthesis. The production by human skin of antimicrobial peptides such as defensins and cathelicidins occurs constitutively but also greatly increases after infection, inflammation or injury. Some skin diseases show altered expression of antimicrobial peptides, partially explaining the pathophysiology of these diseases. Thus, current research suggests that understanding how antimicrobial peptides modify susceptibility to microbes, influence skin inflammation, and modify wound healing, provides greater insight into the pathophysiology of skin disorders and offers new therapeutic opportunities. (+info)Dermcidin-derived peptides show a different mode of action than the cathelicidin LL-37 against Staphylococcus aureus. (2/3)
(+info)HSP70 natively and specifically associates with an N-terminal dermcidin-derived peptide that contains an HLA-A*03 antigenic epitope. (3/3)
(+info)Dermcidin is a group of antimicrobial peptides that are produced by the human body. These peptides are expressed in the sweat glands and are released through sweat. They play an important role in the body's defense against microbial infections, as they have been shown to have antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Dermcidin is particularly important for protecting the skin, which is constantly exposed to potential pathogens.
The gene that encodes dermcidin is located on chromosome 8 in humans. The protein produced by this gene is cleaved into several smaller peptides, each with its own unique properties and functions. Some of these peptides are stored in the sweat glands and released upon stimulation, while others are produced and secreted on demand.
Dermcidin has been studied for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly in the context of wound healing and infection prevention. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action and potential uses of this important group of peptides.
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Dermcidin expression is associated with disease progression and survival among breast cancer patients - PubMed
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