Question

Neutrophils (and macrophages) contain cationic peptides, which contain around 30-35 amino acids, are rich in cysteine and arginine, and have specific antibiotic-like activity by virtue of their pore-forming activity. What are these peptides called?

Leukocidins
Immunotoxins
Immunophilins
Defensins
Endotoxins

Answer 1

The cationic peptides contained in neutrophils and macrophages with antibiotic-like activity that form pores in microbial membranes are called defensins.

Step-by-step explanation:

The cationic peptides described in the question, which are contained in neutrophils and macrophages and display specific antibiotic-like activity through their pore-forming ability, are known as defensins. These peptides are a vital part of the innate immune defense and have a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity.

Defensins are notable for their ability to bind to and puncture bacterial and fungal plasma membranes, causing the cell contents to leak out. They have been identified in various species and are extensively researched for their therapeutic potential against infections.