Defensins are cysteine-rich cationic antimicrobial peptides produced primarily by neutrophils, intestinal Paneth cells, and various mucosal epithelial cells. They can directly disrupt microbial membranes, entrap pathogens, recruit immune cells, and regulate the mucosal microbiota, making them ...
Interleukin-29 (IL-29) is a key member of the type III interferon family and is also commonly referred to as interferon lambda 1 (IFN-λ1). IL-29 carries both an “IL-series” designation and a clear interferon-like functional identity.