Has broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. Has antibacterial activity against the Gram-positive bacterium L.monocytogenes EGD and the Gram-negative bacteria E.coli ML-35p and avirulent S.typhimurium 7953, but not against the mouse-virulent S.typhimurium 14028S. Probably contributes to the antimicrobial barrier function of the small bowel mucosa. Paneth cells of the small bowel. Belongs to the alpha-defensin family.