A structural component of the cornified envelope of the stratum corneum involved in innate cutaneous host defense (Probable). Possesses defensin-like antimicrobial activity against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, both aerobic and anaerobic species. Upon inflammation, may regulate skin barrier repair by shaping cutaneous microbiota composition and immune response to bacterial antigens (PubMed:28634035). Skin-specific. Expression was readily detected in adult trunk skin, adult arm skin, fetal skin, penal skin, vulva, esophagus and tongue. Not expressed in the cervix, rectum, lung, colon, or placenta. Belongs to the LCE family.