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The role of complement in B cell activation and tolerance
1Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Advances in Immunology
|December 22, 1999
Summary
The complement system, a key part of innate immunity, enhances adaptive immunity by aiding B cell survival, memory, and tolerance. Deficiencies in complement proteins like C1q or C4 are linked to lupus, highlighting its dual role.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Innate and Adaptive Immunity
Background:
- Innate immunity acts as a natural adjuvant, enhancing adaptive immune responses.
- The complement system is a major mediator linking innate and adaptive immunity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of the complement system in bridging innate and adaptive immunity.
- To explore complement's function in B cell survival, memory, and tolerance.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing knockout mice with deficiencies in complement proteins and receptors.
- Characterizing mechanisms of B cell survival and localization in lymphoid compartments.
- Analyzing the role of complement in negative selection of B lymphocytes.
Main Results:
- Complement is crucial for enhancing humoral immunity and B cell survival.
- Complement receptors facilitate antigen localization for long-term B cell memory.
- Complement plays a role in negative B cell selection, potentially explaining lupus predisposition.
Conclusions:
- The complement system has a dual role in B cell activation and tolerance.
- Natural IgM and complement identify conserved self-antigens, maintaining self-tolerance.
- Further research will uncover more intricate interactions between complement and acquired immunity.