The role of human defensins in gastrointestinal diseases.
In clarifying the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases, a dysregulation of the adaptive immune function was the main focus of research in the last decade. With increasing knowledge of antimicrobial peptides, a primary disturbed barrier function and the system of innate immunity has recently received increasing attention. Contrary to the common understanding of irritable bowel syndrome as a functional disorder, there is first evidence for an involvement of innate immunity for this condition. Peptides with high relevance seem to be the class of human defensins. This article will thus discuss current advances in immunologic research of inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome, focusing on defensins and their possible role as biomarkers of these diseases.
Integrative Gastroenterology, Department of Integrative and Internal Medicine, Kliniken Essen-Mitte, University of Duisburg-Essen, Knappschafts Krankenhaus, Am Deimelsberg 34a, 45276 Essen, Germany. j.langhorst@kliniken-essen-mitte.de
Jost
J
Langhorst
Kyung-Eun
KE
Choi
D015415:Biomarkers / Q000378:metabolism; D023082:Defensins / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007113:Immunity, Innate; D015212:Inflammatory Bowel Diseases / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D043183:Irritable Bowel Syndrome / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism
D015415:Biomarkers; D023082:Defensins