Bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein (BPI) and BPI homologs at mucosal sites.
At mucosal surfaces, we must co-exist with a high density of diverse microorganisms; therefore, protection against these occurs on multiple levels. Leukocyte- and epithelial derived-antimicrobial peptides and proteins (AMPs) comprise an essential component of immune defense. These molecules possess antibacterial, antifungal and signalling properties and probably contribute to defence and maintenance of homeostasis between the host and commensal microorganisms. Among these AMPs is bactericidal/permeability-increasing protein (BPI), an antimicrobial protein with potent endotoxin-neutralising activity, and several homologs. This review explores the roles of BPI and and its homologs at the mucosal interface. Congeners of BPI are under biopharmaceutical development as novel anti-infective agents, highlighting the potential therapeutic relevance of this protein family.
Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Medical Genetics, Central University Hospital of Vaud (CHUV), 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland. Geraldine.Canny@chuv.ch
Geraldine
G
Canny
Ofer
O
Levy
D000818:Animals; D023181:Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001798:Blood Proteins / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004847:Epithelial Cells / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism; D009092:Mucous Membrane / Q000737:chemistry / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000382:microbiology; D010743:Phospholipids / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism
D023181:Antimicrobial Cationic Peptides; D001798:Blood Proteins; D010743:Phospholipids; C021623:bactericidal permeability increasing protein