Beta-defensien 2 RP lab

BETA-DEFENSIN 2

An antimicrobial peptide. It is endogenously produced by neutrophil granulocytes and is part of the innate immune system (first line defense).

Beta-defensin-2 is a natural anti-inflammatory substance released during infection. Beta-defensin-2 is produced only by the lining of the colon.

Thus, increases in Beta Defensin 2 specifically indicate a disorder of the colon. The test can help determine whether Crohn's disease - which can occur in the colon and small intestine - has affected the colon. In addition, beta-defensin-2 is almost always elevated when infected with the parasite Dientamoeba fragilis.