Beta Defensin-14 (BD-14), also known as Mouse Beta-Defensin-14 (mBD-14), is a member of the defensin family of antimicrobial peptides. Defensins are small, cationic peptides that play a crucial role in the innate immune system by providing a first line of defense against microbial infections. They are found in a wide range of organisms, including plants, insects, and vertebrates .
BD-14 is a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain consisting of 45 amino acids and has a molecular mass of approximately 5.2 kDa . The structure of defensins is characterized by a beta-strand stabilized by disulfide bridges, which are essential for their antimicrobial activity . BD-14 exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, capable of targeting bacteria, viruses, and fungi .
The expression of mBD-14 can be induced by various factors, including gamma interferon and transforming growth factor alpha . These factors enhance the gene expression of mBD-14 in keratinocytes, suggesting its role in the skin’s immune response. Additionally, the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway has been implicated in the expression of mBD-14 in mouse osteoblasts upon contact with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) supernatant .
Defensins, including mBD-14, are released or secreted at epithelial surfaces and from immune cells in response to infection and inflammation . They act as endogenous alarmins, alerting the body to danger and promoting both local innate and adaptive systemic immune responses. mBD-14 has been shown to have a dichotomous role in the immune response, where it can either suppress or exacerbate inflammation depending on the context .
The antimicrobial properties of mBD-14 make it a promising candidate for therapeutic applications. Studies have shown that increasing the release of mBD-14 can significantly reduce bacterial growth in a mouse model of osteomyelitis, a severe bone infection . This suggests that mBD-14 could be a potential therapeutic target for treating infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria.