HTN3

This gene encodes a member of the histatin family of small, histidine-rich salivary proteins. Histatins exhibit non-immunological, anti-microbial activity in the oral cavity. [provided by RefSeq]

Full Name

histatin 3

Function

Histatins are salivary proteins that are considered to be major precursors of the protective proteinaceous structure on tooth surfaces (enamel pellicle). In addition, histatins exhibit antibacterial and antifungal activities. His3-(20-43)-peptide (histatin-5) is especially effective against C.albicans and C.neoformans, and inhibits Lys-gingipain and Arg-gingipain (rgpB) from P.gingivalis. In addition, His3-(20-43)-peptide is a potent inhibitor of metalloproteinases MMP2 and MMP9.

Biological Process

Antimicrobial humoral immune response mediated by antimicrobial peptide Source: UniProtKB
Biomineral tissue development Source: UniProtKB-KW
Defense response to bacterium Source: UniProtKB
Defense response to fungus Source: UniProtKB-KW
Killing of cells of other organism Source: UniProtKB

Cellular Location

Secreted. Secreted by serous acinar and demilune cells.

PTM

24 proteolytic products are found in saliva.