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The role of complement in inflammatory diseases from behind the scenes into the spotlight.
- Source :
-
The American journal of pathology [Am J Pathol] 2007 Sep; Vol. 171 (3), pp. 715-27. Date of Electronic Publication: 2007 Jul 19. - Publication Year :
- 2007
-
Abstract
- Our understanding of the biology of the complement system has undergone a drastic metamorphosis since its original discovery. This system, which was traditionally primarily described as a "complement" to humoral immunity, is now perceived as a central constituent of innate immunity, defending the host against pathogens, coordinating various events during inflammation, and bridging innate and adaptive immune responses. Complement is an assembly of proteins found in the blood and body fluids and on cell surfaces. Soluble complement components form the proteolytic cascade, whose activation leads to the generation of complement effectors that target various cells involved in the immune response. Membrane-bound receptors and regulators transmit signals from complement effectors to target cells and limit complement activation to the surfaces of pathogens and damaged or activated host cells. The multiple interconnections among complement proteins, immune cells, and mediators provide an excellent mechanism to protect the organism against infections and support the repair of damaged tissues. However, disturbances in this "defense machinery" contribute to the pathogenesis of various diseases. The role of complement in various inflammatory disorders is multifaceted; for example, the activation of complement can significantly contribute to inflammation-mediated tissue damage, whereas inherited or acquired complement deficiencies highly favor the development of autoimmunity.
- Subjects :
- Anaphylatoxins immunology
Anaphylatoxins pharmacology
Autoimmune Diseases immunology
Capillary Permeability
Chemotaxis, Leukocyte
Complement Activation physiology
Humans
Immune Tolerance physiology
Regional Blood Flow drug effects
Reperfusion Injury immunology
Complement System Proteins immunology
Immune System physiology
Inflammation
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 0002-9440
- Volume :
- 171
- Issue :
- 3
- Database :
- MEDLINE
- Journal :
- The American journal of pathology
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 17640961
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.2353/ajpath.2007.070166