The<unk>  encoded by this gene is the predominant constituent of the crystalline core of the eosinophil granule. High levels of the proform of this<unk>  are also present in placenta and pregnancy serum, where it exists as a complex with several other<unk> s including pregnancy-associated plasma<unk>  A (PAPPA), angiotensinogen (AGT), and C3dg. This<unk>  may be involved in antiparasitic defense mechanisms as a cytotoxin and helmintho-toxin, and in immune hypersensitivity reactions. It is directly implicated in epithelial cell damage, exfoliation, and bronchospasm in allergic diseases. PRG2 is a 117-residue<unk>  that predominates in eosinophil granules. It is a potent enzyme against helminths and is toxic towards bacteria and mammalian cells in vitro. The eosinophil<unk>  also causes the release of histamine from mast cells and basophils, and activates neutrophils and alveolar macrophages.
Major basic protein
Defensin
Macrophage-activating factor
Interleukin
Beta defensin
Immunophilins
Alpha defensin
Lymphokine