DEFA1

Function

Effector molecule of the innate immune system that acts via antibiotic-like properties against a broad array of infectious agents including bacteria, fungi, and viruses or by promoting the activation and maturation of some APCs (PubMed:15616305, PubMed:17142766, PubMed:20220136, PubMed:24236072). Interacts with the essential precursor of cell wall synthesis lipid II to inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis (PubMed:20214904). Inhibits adenovirus infection via inhibition of viral disassembly at the vertex region, thereby restricting the release of internal capsid protein pVI, which is required for endosomal membrane penetration during cell entry (PubMed:18191790). In addition, interaction with adenovirus capsid leads to the redirection of viral particles to TLR4 thereby promoting a NLRP3-mediated inflammasome response and interleukin 1-beta (IL-1beta) release (PubMed:35080426). Induces the production of proinflammatory cytokines including type I interferon (IFN) in plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) by triggering the degradation of NFKBIA and nuclear translocation of IRF1, both of which are required for activation of pDCs (PubMed:27031443).

Post-translational modifications

ADP-ribosylation drastically reduces cytotoxic and antibacterial activities, and enhances IL8 production.

Phosphorylation at Tyr-85 has been found in some cancer cell lines, and interferes with ADP-ribosylation.

Sequence Similarities

Belongs to the alpha-defensin family.

Cellular localization

• Secreted

Alternative names

DEF1, DEFA2, MRS, DEFA1B, DEFA1, Neutrophil defensin 1, HNP-1, HP-1, HP1

Database links

swissprot:P59665 entrezGene:728358 entrezGene:1668 entrezGene:1667 swissprot:P59666 omim:125220