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The Role of Complement in Synaptic Pruning and Neurodegeneration
Angela Gomez-Arboledas1, Munjal M Acharya2,3, Andrea J Tenner1,4,5
1Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA.
Immunotargets and Therapy
|October 1, 2021
Summary
The complement system aids brain function but its overactivation causes inflammation and neurodegeneration. Targeting this system offers therapeutic potential for brain diseases and radiotherapy side effects.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Innate Immunity
- Neuroscience
Background:
- The complement system, crucial for innate immunity, comprises proteins vital for brain health and disease.
- Dysregulated complement activation is linked to neuroinflammation in conditions like stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and TBI.
- Complement components C1q and C3 are essential for synaptic refinement but excessive pruning can cause synaptic loss.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the complement system's role in synaptic pruning.
- To discuss its contribution to neurodegeneration and cognitive deficits.
- To explore therapeutic strategies targeting the complement system for neuroinflammatory diseases and radiotherapy complications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific articles.
- Analysis of the complement system's function in the brain.
- Synthesis of findings on synaptic pruning, neurodegeneration, and cognitive function.
Main Results:
- The complement system plays a dual role in synaptic plasticity, being beneficial in refinement but detrimental when overactive.
- Excessive complement-mediated synaptic pruning contributes to synaptic loss and neurodegeneration.
- Inappropriate complement activation is implicated in various neurological disorders and radiotherapy side effects.
Conclusions:
- The complement system is a key player in both normal brain function and pathological processes.
- Targeting the complement system presents a promising therapeutic avenue for neuroinflammatory conditions.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complement system's complex role in the brain and develop effective treatments.
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