Reg3 Proteins as Gut Hormones?

C-type lectins of the Reg3 family belong to antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), which function as a barrier to protect body surfaces against microorganisms. Reg3 mainly expressed throughout the small intestine modulate host defense process via bactericidal activity. A wide range of studies indicate that Reg3 family plays an important role in the physical segregation of microbiota from host as well as the immune response induced by enteric pathogens. In this review, we review a growing literature on the potential metabolic functions of Reg3 proteins and their potential to act as important gut hormones.