beta Defensin-2 (BD2), human, highly purified

Human Beta defensin-2 is synthesized from 64 aa precursor (mature peptide 24-64 aa). The sequence of mature HBD-2 is: GIG DPV TCL KSG AIC HPV FCP RRY KQI GTC GLP GTK CCK KP, 41aa, Mol Wt 4335.00). This preparation has not been oxidized to form dilsulfides. Antimicrobial peptides are a common mechanism of host defense utilized by a variety of species, from insects to humans. Defensins are a large family of broad-spectrum antimicrobial peptides, identified originally in leukocytes of rabbits and humans. Defensins, cationic/polar peptides (30-35 aa, 3-4kD), are distinguished by a conserved tri-disulfides and a largely b-Sheet structure. Defensins, expressed at the cell surface, have been hypothesized to function as a biochemical barrier against microbial infection by inhibiting colonization of the epithelium by wide range of pathogenic microorganisms. In leukocytes, these peptides are stored in cytoplasmic granules and are released into phagolysosomes where they contribute to the killing of engulfed microorganisms. , The genes encoding human a and ß -defensins are clustered in a contiguous segment of chromosome 8p23. Defensins are classified into two families designated a-and ß-based on distinctive, although similar, tri-disulfide linkages in the peptides. b-defensins are slightly larger and differ in the position and arrangement of 3 disulfides. In humans, six a -defensin (cryptidins), HD 1-6 (HD1-4 are also known as HNP1-4 for Human Neutrophil Peptides), and two ß -defensins, HBD-1 and HBD-2, have been identified to date. Rat (RBD-1 and RBD-2) and mouse (MBD1-4) homologues of the human beta-defensin have also been identified. a-defensins are encoded by genes designated DEFA1-6, whereas human b-defensins are encoded by the DEFB1 and DEFb2 genes. Applications: Suitable as a positive control for ELISA or as a blocking peptide for human beta-defensin-2 antibodies. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4°C for short-term only. For long-term storage, store at -20°C. Aliquots are stable for at least 6 months at -20°C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer.