The group of β-defensins are a class of antimicrobial cationic arginine-rich peptides and are part of the innate non-specific immune response. To date, nine different β-defensins have been identified in humans. Defensins are produced by neutrophilic granulocytes and mucosal cells of the small and large intestine.(1) This includes β-defensin 2, which consists of 64 amino acids and has a molecular weight of 7 kDa.
Inflammation and microorganisms result in increased expression of β-defensins.(2) Defensins inhibit the activity of histamine-producing germ species. In addition, they have a modulating effect on the release of histamine from mast cells in the mucous membrane. At low histamine concentrations they cause release, at high concentrations they have an inhibitory effect.(3)
1. What percentage of your IgE allergy testing panel consists of molecular allergens rather than allergen extracts? The ALEX2 IgE allergen panel consists of 117 extracts and 183 molecular allergens. This represents the largest panel of molecular allergens on the market, including 50 unique...
Cases of food and environmental allergies have been increasing over the last decade. While conservative estimates suggest IgE-mediated allergy affects 6-8% of children and 2-3% of adults, some estimates are as high as 30%.3, 2 Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include itching, hives,...
Food sensitivity or food intolerance involves a non-allergic response to a food or food additive. In a recent on-line survey conducted in the U.S., 24% of adults aged 18 to 79 reported a food intolerance. While a food allergy is typically mediated by IgE antibodies, adverse reactions to food...
In a head-to-head comparison of FDA-cleared assays and a novel ALPCO method, investigators observed wide variability in specificity and false-positive rates across platforms, raising important questions about standardization and clinical interpretation.
July 22, 2025 – Salem, NH – NuvinkaDx, a leading innovator in diagnostic solutions, today announced two significant product and regulatory milestones from its operating companies, GeneProof and ALPCO.
Energy homeostasis is a focus of research into diabetes and obesity. Read about how our assays in this area can assist both academic and industry researchers.
Complement System Solutions for Drug Development and Clinical Research Datasheet
The complement system is essential to innate immunity from a variety of diseases. ALPCO’s full range of complement system immunoassays can drive discovery.
Melatonin Products for Sleep Disorder-Related Research Datasheet
The melatonin hormone affects the circadian rhythm and sleep-wake cycle. Find out about our immunoassays and products that explore melatonin and sleep disorders.
