θ-defensins, non-human macrocyclic peptides, have been found to reduce expression of genes encoding for various pro-inflammatory peptides (such as cytokines and chemokines) in a highly selective manner. Methods for treating inflammatory conditions utilizing a θ-defensin and/or a θ-defensin analog, methods for modifying (e.g. down regulating) gene expression for pro-inflammatory peptides in a subject in need thereof using a θ-defensin and/or a θ-defensin analog, methods for selectively modifying expression of such genes and/or reducing pro-inflammatory peptides in a subject without inducing or worsening immunosuppression using a θ-defensin and/or a θ-defensin analog are discussed, as are compositions that include a θ-defensin and/or a θ-defensin analog in an amount and/or form suitable for use in such methods.
