Beta Defensin-2 (BD-2) is a member of the defensin family of antimicrobial peptides. These peptides are crucial components of the innate immune system, providing a first line of defense against a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Defensins are small, cationic peptides that are rich in cysteine and typically range from 2 to 6 kDa in size .
Defensins are classified into three categories based on the arrangement of their cysteine residues and the connectivity of their disulfide bonds: alpha (α), beta (β), and theta (θ) defensins. Beta defensins, including BD-2, are characterized by their specific cysteine pairing and spacing: Cys1-Cys5, Cys2-Cys4, and Cys3-Cys6 . Mouse Beta Defensin-2 (mBD-2) is a cationic peptide composed of 41 amino acids and has a gene sequence similar to other mouse and human beta defensins .
BD-2 is predominantly produced by epithelial cells, especially in the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts. It plays a significant role in the host’s defense by directly targeting and neutralizing pathogens that invade epithelial surfaces. Additionally, BD-2 modulates the host’s immune response by influencing cytokine expression, thereby bridging the innate and adaptive immune responses .
Recombinant mouse Beta Defensin-2 (rmBD-2) is produced using prokaryotic expression systems, such as Escherichia coli. The gene encoding mBD-2 is cloned into an expression plasmid, which is then introduced into E. coli cells. These cells produce the recombinant peptide, which is subsequently purified using chromatographic techniques . The recombinant form of mBD-2 retains its antimicrobial properties and is used in various research applications to study its role in immune defense and potential therapeutic uses .
One of the notable functions of rmBD-2 is its antiviral activity. Studies have shown that rmBD-2 can inhibit the infection of influenza A virus (IAV) by blocking the virus’s entry into host cells. This antiviral activity has been demonstrated both in vitro and in vivo, with rmBD-2 providing significant protection against lethal IAV challenges in experimental mice . The ability of rmBD-2 to prevent viral entry highlights its potential as a therapeutic agent against viral infections.