The role of complement in inflammation and adaptive immunity
R Barrington1, M Zhang, M Fischer
1The Center for Blood Research, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
Immunological Reviews
|June 21, 2001
Summary
Gene-targeting technology advanced complement system research, revealing its dual role in host protection and B-1 lymphocyte regulation. This research offers new insights into immunity and inflammation.
Area of Science:
- Immunobiology
- Complement System
- Adaptive Immunity
Background:
- Recent advances in gene-targeting technology have significantly enhanced the understanding of complement immunobiology.
- Development of genetically modified mice with specific complement deficiencies provides novel research models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on the complement system's roles in host protection, inflammation, and B lymphocyte regulation.
- To explore the interconnectedness of complement's functions in immunity and disease.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing gene-targeting technology to create mouse models with specific complement protein or receptor deficiencies.
- Characterizing these mouse models to gain insights into complement system biology.
Main Results:
- The complement system plays a crucial role in host protection against bacterial infections, working alongside natural antibodies.
- Complement and natural antibodies also contribute to inflammatory processes, as seen in reperfusion injury.
- B-1 lymphocytes, producers of natural antibodies, are significantly regulated by the complement system.
Conclusions:
- The complement system has a dual role in immunity: protecting hosts and regulating adaptive immunity via B lymphocytes.
- Understanding these interconnected roles is vital for developing new therapeutic strategies for inflammatory diseases and infections.
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