<n0:ComplexDefinition xmlns:n0="http://ncicb.nci.nih.gov/xml/owl/EVS/ComplexProperties.xsd#"><n0:def-definition>Family of antimicrobial peptides that have been identified in humans, animals, and plants. They are thought to play a role in host defenses against infections, inflammation, wound repair, and acquired immunity. Based on the disulfide pairing of their characteristic six cysteine residues, they are divided into ALPHA-DEFENSINS and BETA-DEFENSINS.</n0:def-definition><n0:def-source>MSH2002_06_01</n0:def-source></n0:ComplexDefinition>