DCD-1 is a 47-amino acid antimicrobial peptide (AMP). It is expressed in eccrine sweat glands, secreted into sweat at a concentration of 1-10µg/mL, and transported to the epidermal surface. Unlike most AMPs, which are cationic, DCD has a net negative charge.
DCD-1 displays antimicrobial activity thereby limiting skin infection by potential pathogens in the first few hours after bacterial colonization. Highly effective against E.coli, E.faecalis, S.aureus and C.albicans. Optimal pH and salt concentration resemble the conditions in sweat. Also exhibits proteolytic activity. DCD-1 is able to bind to the cell surface but is not found in the bacterial cytoplasm. DCD-1L and DCD-1 are also active under high-salt conditions and in a buffer resembling human sweat.
Steffen H, Rieg S, Wiedemann I, Kalbacher H, Deeg M, Sahl HG, Peschel A, Götz F, Garbe C, Schittek B. Naturally processed dermcidin-derived peptides do not permeabilize bacterial membranes and kill microorganisms irrespective of their charge. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2006 Aug;50(8):2608-20.