Defensyny

Defensyny is the plural form used in some languages (notably in non-English literature) for defensins, a family of small, cysteine-rich antimicrobial peptides that are part of innate immune defense in a wide range of organisms. In English-language sources, the term defensins is standard, but defensyny may appear as an alternative transliteration or historical usage.

Defensins are typically short peptides, ranging from about 18 to 54 amino acids, and are stabilized by multiple disulfide bonds. They are broadly categorized into plant defensins and animal defensins, with animals further divided into alpha-, beta-, and, in some species, theta-defensins. Plant defensins are produced in tissues such as seeds and roots and contribute to disease resistance, while animal defensins are produced by tissues including neutrophils and epithelial cells and can be released rapidly in response to infection.

The mechanism of action for defensins generally involves their cationic, amphipathic character, which promotes interaction with microbial membranes. This can lead to membrane disruption and pore formation, resulting in pathogen death. Some defensins also exhibit intracellular activities and can modulate immune responses, inflammation, and signaling pathways.

Genetically, defensin genes encode precursor proteins that are processed by proteolytic enzymes to yield the mature, active peptides. Expression is often inducible by pathogens, wounding, or stress, leading to accumulation in extracellular spaces or specialized storage compartments.

Defensyny/defensins have potential applications in medicine and agriculture. They are studied as templates for new antibiotics, as natural preservatives in food, and for engineering disease resistance in crops. Research continues to clarify structure–function relationships and to enhance stability and specificity.