Complement activation by carotenoid derived aldehydes in cultured human vein epithelial cells

This study was designed to determine the complement activation effects of carotenoid-derived aldehydes (CDA) on cultured human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). A dose-dependent complement activation upon incubation of HUVEC with CDA was observed. Interestingly, the data showed that the alternative pathway was not activated. In addition, upon CDA treatment a significant number of apoptotic cells was also observed. The results revealed that CDA could activate the complement by way of the classical pathway. The study suggests that high carotenoid supplementation for the treatment of coronary heart disease should be used cautiously.