Human Neutrophil Defensins 1-3 ELISA Assay

Human neutrophil defensins (alpha-defensins) belong together with the β-defensins in the multi membrane families of cationic trisulfide-containing (microbiocidal) peptides. They exert their microbiocidal activity by permeating the membrane involving the formation of voltage regulated ion channels. Azurophilic granules of neutrophils contain Human Neutrophil Defensins (HNP) 2-4. HNP 1-3 are highly homologous. Activation of neutrophils leads to rapid release of HNP. HNP can be measured in plasma and other body fluids during infection and inflammation. In normal plasma very low levels of HNP are present. Activation of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN) in plasma as it occurs during clotting of blood leads to a rapid release of HNP. The assay is useful for detection of HNP 1-3 in tissue culture media, plasma and other body fluids.