Figure 1

Representation of peak expression of the β-defensins, HBD1-4, and the WAP proteins, SLPI and elafin, in endometrium throughout the menstrual cycle. HBD1, HBD3 and SLPI are maximally expressed during the secretory phase. In contrast, expression of HBD4 is highest during the proliferative phase while HBD2 and elafin expression peaks during menstruation.