Where can I find the protein concentration?

The protein concentration of each product is listed on the Certificate of Analysis. This value is determined for each individual lot and reflects the actual concentration (mg/mL) of the material you received.

Where can I find the recommended storage conditions?

Storage conditions are listed on both the product datasheet and the Certificate of Analysis. These recommendations are based on internal stability assessments and are intended to maintain protein integrity and activity.

What should I do if my product arrives warm, partially thawed, or damaged?

Please contact Athens Bioscience with your order number and lot number. Our technical support team will assist you promptly.

Where can I find the final buffer composition?

The final buffer formulation is provided on the Certificate of Analysis. This includes buffer components, pH, and whether the product was supplied as a liquid or lyophilized powder.

Defensins, Alpha, Mixed

Name: Defensins, Alpha, Mixed
SKU: 16-14-081416-100UG
Availability: InStock

Human Neutrophil Peptides, HNP

Small cationic neutrophil peptides which exhibit broad antimicrobial activity via membrane disruption.

Purity: ≥95% (SDS-PAGE)

Source: Human Neutrophils

Molecular Weight: < 3.5 kDa

Form: Frozen

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Product Description

Role of protein in biology

Alpha-defensins are small (3-4 kDa), cysteine-rich cationic peptides characterized by a conserved triple β-sheet structure stabilized by three disulfide bonds. Primarily secreted by neutrophils and Paneth cells, these peptides exhibit broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against bacteria, fungi, and enveloped viruses via membrane disruption. Their cationic nature facilitates electrostatic attraction to negatively charged microbial membranes, forming voltage-dependent pores that induce osmotic lysis. Beyond direct pathogen killing, alpha-defensins (e.g., HNP1-3) promote neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation and modulate immune responses by enhancing phagocytosis, regulating cytokine production, and suppressing glucocorticoid-mediated immunosuppression.

Common research uses

Elevated alpha-defensin levels correlate with alcohol-related liver cirrhosis severity, where they predict hepatic encephalopathy and mortality. In prosthetic joint infections (PJI), synovial alpha-defensin detection via lateral flow assays achieves 92-100% specificity, serving as a rapid diagnostic biomarker. Genetic polymorphisms link alpha-defensin dysregulation to autoimmune disorders like lupus and neuropsychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia. Conversely, deficiencies increase susceptibility to pyogenic infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.

Common uses include IVD Assay standards, calibrators and controls, Immune system research.