[2] Histatin was first discovered (isolated) in 1988, with functions that's responsible in keeping homeostasis inside the oral cavity, helping in the formation of pellicles, and assist in bonding of metal ions.
Nonetheless, histatins mainly possess a cationic (positive) charge due to the primary structure consisting mostly of basic amino acids.
Studies show that the removal of histidine (especially in histatin 5) resulted in reduction of antifungal activity.
The N-terminus of Histatin 5 allows it to bind with metals, and this can result in the production of reactive oxygen species.
[7] They also inhibit the growth of yeast, by binding to the potassium transporter and facilitating in the loss of azole-resistant species.