In vitro activities of synthetic host defense propeptides processed by neutrophil elastase against cystic fibrosis pathogens

Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2011 May;55(5):2487-9. doi: 10.1128/AAC.01384-10. Epub 2011 Feb 22.

Abstract

The antimicrobial and hemolytic activities of a host defense peptide can be controlled by its modification as a propeptide of reduced net charge, which can then be processed by neutrophil elastase, a serine protease involved in chronic airway inflammation and infections associated with cystic fibrosis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cystic Fibrosis / microbiology*
  • Hemolysis / drug effects
  • Humans
  • Leukocyte Elastase / genetics
  • Leukocyte Elastase / metabolism*
  • Peptides / metabolism*
  • Peptides / pharmacology*
  • Pseudomonas aeruginosa / drug effects
  • Staphylococcus aureus / drug effects

Substances

  • Peptides
  • Leukocyte Elastase