Antimicrobial Polypeptides of Human Vernix Caseosa and Amniotic Fluid: Implications for Newborn Innate Defense

Yoshio, Hiroyuki; Tollin, Maria; Guðmundsson, Guðmundur H.; Lagercrantz, Hugo; Jörnvall, Hans; Marchini, Giovanna; Agerberth, Birgitta

doi:10.1203/01.pdr.0000047471.47777.b0

Cited by 119 publications

(119 citation statements)

References 33 publications

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“…In previous studies, we have characterized antimicrobial peptides and polypeptides in vernix [7,8]. In the present study, we demonstrate the presence of many more proteins of immunological importance in vernix.…”

Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 73%

Vernix caseosa as a multi-component defence system based on polypeptides, lipids and their interactions

Tollin

Bergsson

Kai-Larsen

et al. 2005

Cell. Mol. Life Sci.

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Vernix caseosa is a white cream-like substance that covers the skin of the foetus and the newborn baby. Recently, we discovered antimicrobial peptides/proteins such as LL-37 in vernix, suggesting host defence functions of vernix. In a proteomic approach, we have continued to characterize proteins in vernix and have identified 20 proteins, plus additional variant forms. The novel proteins identified, considered to be involved in host defence, are cystatin A, UGRP-1, and calgranulin A, B and C. These proteins add protective functions to vernix such as antifungal activity, opsonizing capacity, protease inhibition and parasite inactivation. The composition of the lipids in vernix has also been characterized and among these compounds the free fatty acids were found to exhibit antimicrobial activity. Interestingly, the vernix lipids enhance the antimicrobial activity of LL-37 in vitro, indicating interactions between lipids and antimicrobial peptides in vernix. In conclusion, vernix is a balanced cream of compounds involved in host defence, protecting the foetus and newborn against infection.

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Section: Discussionsupporting

confidence: 73%

Vernix caseosa as a multi-component defence system based on polypeptides, lipids and their interactions

Tollin

Bergsson

Kai-Larsen

et al. 2005

Cell. Mol. Life Sci.

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“…Protein expression of LL37 has also been identified in amniotic fluid (Yoshio et al 2003) and in non-pregnant vaginal fluid .…”

Section: Expression Of Ampsmentioning

confidence: 98%

Antimicrobial peptides and pregnancy

Frew¹,

Stock²

2011

Reproduction

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Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are small proteins produced by epithelial surfaces and inflammatory cells, which have broad-spectrum antimicrobial and immunomodulatory activities. They are known to be important in a number of infectious and inflammatory conditions and have been shown to be present in a number of sites throughout the female reproductive tract. Inflammation and infection are associated with a number of complications of pregnancy including preterm labor, and AMPs may play a key role in maintaining and protecting pregnancy. The aim of this review is to describe the expression and function of AMPs in the pregnant female reproductive tract and their relation to preterm labor.

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“…[23] It contains antimicrobial agents including lysozyme and lactoferrin and exhibits a range of bioactivity against common fungal and bacterial pathogens. [24][25][26][27] In some settings, vernix is removed immediately after birth. Reported evidence suggests there may be value in reconsidering this practice.…”

Section: Infant Skin Development -Vernix Caseosamentioning

confidence: 99%