Beta defensin-3, also known as BD-3 and DEFB-3, is a membrane active cationic peptide that functions in inflammation and innate immune responses and coded by Defb 3 gene on chromosome 8 in mouse. There are at least 30 b-defensins which are distinguished from beta-defensins by the connectivity pattern of their three intramolecular disulfide bonds. BD3 is widely expressed among epithelial tissues, notably by keratinocytes and airway epithelial cells. It is upregulated in response to proinflammatory cytokines, microbial and viral infections, and at the edges of skin wounds. BD3 induction in osteoarthritis chondrocytes promotes MMP1 and 13 productions and inhibits TIMP1 and 2 expressions.Synonyms: Beta-defensin 3, BD-3, Defensin beta 3, Defb3