Roles of human antimicrobial peptides in innate immune defense at the ocular surface: arming and alarming corneal and conjunctival epithelial cells

• Published in: Acta ophthalmologica (Oxford, England) Vol. 89; no. s248
• Main Authors: PAULSEN, F, GARREIS, F
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford, UK Blackwell Publishing Ltd 01.09.2011; Wiley Subscription Services, Inc
• Subjects: Antimicrobial agents; Antimicrobial peptides; Cell surface; Cornea; Defensins; Epithelial cells; Eye; Immune system; Inflammation; Keratitis; Peptides
• ISSN: 1755-375X; 1755-3768
• DOI: 10.1111/j.1755-3768.2011.3142.x

Purpose The ocular surface including the lacrimal system and lids have evolved several defence mechanisms to prevent microbial invasion. Included among this armory are several host‐defence (so‐called antimicrobial) peptides. These multifunctional molecules are being studied not only for their endogenous antimicrobial properties but also for their potential therapeutic effects. Methods The talk summerizes the current knowledge of antimicrobial peptide (AMP) expression at the ocular surface and lacrimal apparatus focusing on beta‐defensins, psoriasin, and a protein of the S100 fused‐type namely hornerin. Results The role of these molecules in ocular surface disease will be discussed with the primary focus being on infectious keratitis and inflammatory conditions including dry eye. Conclusion Finally the potential of using AMP and their mimetics/derivatives for the treatment and prevention of ocular surface diseases is addressed.