Expression of beta-defensin-1 in chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) airways

In human airways, P-defensins function in the elimination of various pathog ens. They have been identified in a wide range of species. Here we report t he identification and expression of chimpanzee beta -defensin-1 (cBD1), whi ch is a homolog of human beta -defensin-1, in chimpanzee airways and skin. The cBD1 cDNA sequence differs by only one synonymous nucleotide substituti on compared to the human cDNA sequence. In situ hybridization revealed that in lung tissue beside alveolar macrophages also airway epithelial cells, e ndothelial cells and type II pneumocytes express cBD1 mRNA. In skin, cBD1 m RNA was expressed in keratinocytes and endothelial cells. Together, these r esults show similarity in structure and expression pattern and perhaps in f unction.