Multiple functions of antimicrobial peptides in host defense. AMPs induce a variety of responses in host Innate immune cells such as monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils and epithelial cells. They alter gene expression of host cells, induce production of chemokines and cytokins, promote leukocyte recruitment to the site of infection, influence cell differentiation and activation and block or activate TLR signaling. The outcome of the selective Immunomodulation by AMPs results in innate Immune responses, leading to protection against infection, selective control of inflammation, promotion of wound healing and initiation of adaptive immune responses. Abbrevations: AMP, anti-microbial peptide; DC, dendritic cell; LPS, lipopolysaccharide; pDC, plasmacytold dendritic cell; PMN, polymorphonucleocyte; TLR, Toll-like receptor.