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Studies of Pig Complement: Measurement of Pig CH50, ACH50, and Components
R Sakai1, E Kitano2, M Hatanaka2
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, Osaka, Japan.
Transplantation Proceedings
|June 21, 2016
Summary
Pig innate immunity, including the complement system and natural antibodies, recognizes human cells. This study found lower complement titers and components in pigs compared to humans.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Comparative Medicine
- Innate Immunity
Background:
- The complement system is a crucial part of innate immunity.
- Investigating pig complement and natural antibody responses provides insights into cross-species immune recognition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the hemolytic complement titer in pigs with that in humans.
- To investigate the pig complement system and natural antibody responses against human cells.
Main Methods:
- Hemolytic complement activity (CH50, ACH50) was measured using microtitration techniques.
- Individual complement components (C1, C4, C2, C3, C5, C8, C9) were quantified.
- Pig natural anti-human antibody activity was assessed using human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and flow cytometry.
Main Results:
- Pigs exhibited lower CH50 and ACH50 titers compared to humans.
- Most complement components (C1, C4, C2, C5, C8, C9) were lower in pigs than in humans.
- Pig serum contained natural IgG and IgM antibodies reactive to human PBMCs, and the alternative complement pathway reacted with human erythrocytes.
Conclusions:
- Pig innate immunity, encompassing the complement system and natural antibodies, recognizes human cell surfaces.
- These findings highlight interspecies immune recognition capabilities within innate immunity.
