BD 3 Rat

Beta Defensin-3 is a membrane-active cationic peptide. The recombinant form of Rat Beta Defensin-3 is produced in E. coli and consists of a single, non-glycosylated polypeptide chain containing 41 amino acids . The molecular weight of this peptide is approximately 4.5 kDa . The amino acid sequence of Rat Beta Defensin-3 is as follows:

KKVYNAVSCM TNGGICWLKC SGTFREIGSC GTRQLKCCKK K

This sequence is crucial for its antimicrobial properties, allowing it to interact with microbial membranes effectively .

Beta Defensin-3 exhibits significant antimicrobial activity. It is fully biologically active when compared to standard measurements, with its effectiveness typically measured by its ability to inhibit the growth of E. coli. The effective dose (ED50) for this activity is typically in the range of 4-20 µg/mL .

BD-3 is widely expressed among epithelial tissues, notably by keratinocytes and airway epithelial cells . Its expression is upregulated in response to proinflammatory cytokines, microbial and viral infections, and at the edges of skin wounds . This upregulation is part of the body’s natural defense mechanism to enhance antimicrobial activity during infections and wound healing.

The recombinant Rat Beta Defensin-3 is typically lyophilized for stability and can be stored at -20°C to -70°C for long-term storage . Upon reconstitution, it remains stable for up to one week at 2-8°C. For maximal stability, it is recommended to apportion the reconstituted preparation into working aliquots and store at -20°C to -80°C, avoiding repeated freeze/thaw cycles .

Due to its potent antimicrobial properties, Beta Defensin-3 is used in various research applications, particularly those related to inflammation, innate immune responses, and microbial infections . It is also studied for its role in promoting the production of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and inhibiting tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) in osteoarthritis chondrocytes .