Tuftsin

Tuftsin is a tetrapeptide (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg) produced by enzymatic cleavage of the Fc-domain of the heavy chain of immunoglobulin G. It is produced primarily in the spleen.

Function

Its biological activity is related primarily to the immune system function.

Tuftsin binds to specific receptors on the surface of macrophages and polymorphonuclear leukocytes, stimulating their migration, phagocytic, bactericidal, and tumoricidal activity. It also influences antibody formation.

Pathology

Tuftsin deficiency, either hereditary or following splenectomy, results in increased susceptibility to certain infections e.g.: caused by capsulated organisms as: H. influenza, pneumococci, meningococci and salmonella.

Clinical significance

Tuftsin has been chemically synthesized and it is considered for use in immunotherapy.

History

Tuftsin was first identified in 1970 by scientists Najjar and Nishioka. It was named after Tufts University where the peptide was discovered.

References

See also