Human beta defensin 3 alters matrix metalloproteinase production in human dendritic cells exposed toPorphyromonas gingivalishemagglutinin B

Background Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc‐ or calcium‐dependent proteinases involved in normal maintenance of extracellular matrix. When elevated, they contribute to the tissue destruction seen in periodontal disease. Recently, we found that human beta defensin 3 (HBD3), a cationic antimicrobial peptide, alters chemokine and proinflammatory cytokine responses in human myeloid dendritic cells exposed to Porphyromonas gingivalis...