Defensins are a large family of peptides of which two groups exist in mammals: alpha defensins and beta defensins - which are distinguishable by the spacing and connectivity of the conserved cysteine residues within the mature peptides. It is thought that the function of defensins in the eradication of pathogens from the host system is to insert themselves into the bacterial membrane under the influence of membrane potential, in doing so forms channels which lead to leakage of cytoplasmic molecules and cell death. Unlike hBD-1, this second peptide, human beta-defensin-2 (hBD-2), is regulated at a transcriptional level in response to contact with microorganisms, and is highly effective in killing the gram negative bacteria. Its expression is also upregulated by the cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha.
<1.0 EU/μg of recombinant protein as determined by the LAL method
Biological Activity Comment
The ED50 was determined by its ability to chemoattract immature human dendritic cells using a concentration range of 1-50 ng/mL.
Weight
4.6 kDa
Description
A quick spin of the vial followed by reconstitution in distilled water to a concentration not less than 0.1 mg/mL. This solution can then be diluted into other buffers.
Format
Lyophilized PowderLyophilized from a 0.2 μm filtered solution in PBS (pH 8)
Purity
>95% as determined by SDS-PAGE
Storage
The lyophilized protein is stable for at least one year from date of receipt at -70°C. Upon reconstitution, this cytokine can be stored in working aliquots at 2° - 8°C for one month, or at -20°C for six months, with a carrier protein without detectable loss of activity. Avoid repeated freeze/thaw cycles.
Immunogen Species
Homo Sapiens (Human)
Reviews of Recombinant Human Beta-Defensin 2 (DEFB4A)