HTN3

HTN3 is a gene that in humans is encoded by the HTN3 protein. It is a member of the histatin family of proteins, which are salivary proteins with antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans and other microorganisms. Histatins are histidine-rich, and this richness allows them to bind to zinc and copper, providing them with their antimicrobial properties.

Function

The HTN3 gene encodes histatin 3, a member of the histatin family. Histatins are small proteins that are rich in histidine residues, which allow them to bind to zinc and copper ions. This binding ability gives them their antimicrobial properties. Histatin 3 is found in human saliva and has been shown to have antimicrobial activity against a variety of microorganisms, including the yeast Candida albicans.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the HTN3 gene have been associated with increased susceptibility to oral candidiasis, a common fungal infection of the mouth. This suggests that histatin 3 plays an important role in the body's defense against this type of infection.

See also

• Histatin
• Oral candidiasis
• Antimicrobial protein

External links

• HTN3 at the National Center for Biotechnology Information

HTN3 Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia