On December 2, 2025, the AddiMapping project published an article titled “Microbiota modulation by a human Paneth cell α-defensin fragment protects against DSS-induced colitis” in iScience.
Host defense peptides (HDPs), such as defensins, help regulate interactions between the host and its gut microbiota. Dysregulation of HDP expression has been linked to an increased risk of chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, while certain HDPs can positively influence the gut environment.
In this study, the authors analyzed the effects of various HDPs on human microbiota in vitro. The results highlight a marked functional impact of HD51-9 . In a mouse model of colitis, HD51-9 exerts a potent, microbiota-dependent protective effect against inflammation, partly through mucus-microbiota interactions.
These results underscore the potential of HDPs, particularly HD51-9 , in modulating the gut microbiota and treating intestinal inflammation.
- Erica Bonazzi, Institut Pasteur – Université Paris Cité & Inserm
- Fuhua Hao, University Park
- Andrew D. Patterson, University Park
- Laurent Peyrin-Biroulet, University of Lorraine, Nancy University Hospital
- Benjamin A.H. Jensen, University of Copenhagen
- Benoit Chassaing, Institut Pasteur – Université Paris Cité & Inserm, CHRU Nancy