Pangolin scales as adaptations for innate immunity against pathogens

Area of Science:

• Zoology
• Biochemistry
• Immunology

Background:

• Pangolins are unique mammals with protective scales, crucial for ecosystems and research.
• The exact function of pangolin scales, particularly in defense, remains largely unknown.
• This study investigates the role of pangolin scales in host-pathogen defense.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the functional role of pangolin scales in host-pathogen defense.
• To identify structural and molecular components of pangolin scales contributing to defense.
• To investigate the presence and function of exosomes within pangolin scales.

Main Methods:

• Multi-omics analysis of pangolin scales.
• Antimicrobial assays on scale components against pathogenic bacteria.
• Comparative analysis of pangolin scales with human nail and hair.

Main Results:

• Pangolin scales have a structure that can trap pathogens and contain antimicrobial proteins and metabolites.
• Exosomes from various cell types (mesenchymal stem cells, immune cells, keratinocytes) were identified in scales.
• Pangolin-specific proteins involved in immune and stress responses were found, with demonstrated antimicrobial activity against bacteria.

Conclusions:

• Pangolin scales possess a multifaceted defense system contributing to innate immunity.
• The study reveals the presence of exosomes in pangolin scales, proposing novel functions.
• Findings offer new research directions and potential for biomimetic antimicrobial approaches.