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Updated: Jul 10, 2026
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Quantitative Measurement of Intrathecally Synthesized Proteins in Mice
Published on: November 29, 2019
C3c intrathecal synthesis evaluation in patients with multiple sclerosis
Bárbara Padilla-Docal1, Alberto J Dorta-Contreras, Hermes Fundora-Hernández
1Laboratorio Central de Líquido Cefalorraquídeo, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas Dr. Miguel Enriquez, Instituto Superior de Ciencias Médicas de La Habana, CP 11000 Havana City, Cuba. barbara.padilla@infomed.sod.cu
Arquivos De Neuro-Psiquiatria
|October 24, 2007
Summary
The complement system is activated in multiple sclerosis (MS), with intrathecal synthesis of C3c indicating its involvement in myelin destruction. This suggests the complement system plays a role in MS immunopathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Central Nervous System Disorders
Background:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive central nervous system disease characterized by inflammation and myelin loss (demyelination).
- The precise mechanisms driving MS immunopathogenesis, particularly myelin destruction, require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential involvement of the complement system in the immunopathogenesis of MS.
- To determine if complement system activation contributes to myelin destruction in MS patients.
Main Methods:
- Collected sera and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from twelve MS patients at hospital admission.
- Quantified levels of C3c and albumin in sera and CSF using radial immunodiffusion.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated high levels (over 80%) of intrathecal C3c synthesis in most MS patients.
- Observed degradation of C3c within the CSF, suggesting complement system activation and subsequent breakdown.
Conclusions:
- Intrathecal synthesis and liberation of C3c into the CSF indicate complement system activation in MS.
- The findings support the role of the complement system in the immunopathogenesis of MS, potentially contributing to demyelination.
