Defensins Versus Bacteria: Not Just Antibiotics Anymore Nita H. Salzman Gastroenterology Volume 134, Issue 7, Pages 2174-2177 (June 2008) DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2008.04.028 Copyright © 2008 AGA Institute Terms and Conditions
Figure A model for Toxin B–defensin interaction in the intestine. In the small intestine, high concentrations of HD5 result in Toxin B aggregation and prevention of intoxication. In the large intestine, inadequate amounts of α-defensin are present to aggregate or inhibit Toxin B, resulting in epithelial intoxication, inflammation, and neutrophil infiltration. Gastroenterology 2008 134, 2174-2177DOI: (10.1053/j.gastro.2008.04.028) Copyright © 2008 AGA Institute Terms and Conditions