Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 5, 2026

Analyses of Proteinuria, Renal Infiltration of Leukocytes, and Renal Deposition of Proteins in Lupus-prone MRL/lpr Mice
Published on: June 8, 2022
A simple immunofixation test for induced C3 degradation in disease states (including C3 nephritic factor) and its
Esha Sarkar1, Ellen G Roberts1, Michael J Wallage1
1Department of Immunology and Immunogenetics, Pathology Building, Southmead Hospital, Westbury-on-Trym, Bristol BS10 5NB, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Complement dysregulation from an uncontrolled activation of the alternate pathway can be mediated by C3 Nephritic Factor and results in C3 glomerulopathy. Identification of C3 degradation products C3c and C3d in patient serum provides evidence of uncontrolled complement activation. It is possible to detect C3c and C3d in patient serum by an immunofixation assay which induces in vitro C3 degradation. The clinical performance of the immunofixation assay has been assessed by comparing the assay results with findings from immunostaining of kidney biopsies. The immunofixation assay is a simple and reliable technique for detection of C3 degradation on a widely available platform and can be used to provide corroborative evidence of acquired complement dysregulation in patients with C3 glomerulopathy.
Related Concept Videos
Drug Dosing in Renal Diseases: Measurement of Glomerular Filtration Rate
Nephrotic Syndrome II : Assessment and Medical Management
Acute Kidney Injury IV: Diagnostic Studies and Prevention
Serum Studies: Renal Function Tests

