The role of complement in glomerulonephritis-are novel therapies ready for prime time?

Chee Kay Cheung1,2, John P Dormer3, Jonathan Barratt1,2

  • 1Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK.

Insights

The complement system drives kidney diseases like C3 glomerulopathy and lupus nephritis. Novel therapies targeting complement are emerging, offering new treatment possibilities for these glomerular diseases.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • The complement system is implicated in the pathogenesis of various glomerular diseases.
  • Diseases include C3 glomerulopathy, immunoglobulin A nephropathy, membranous nephropathy, ANCA-associated vasculitis, and lupus nephritis.

Approach:

  • This review summarizes the current understanding of complement's role in glomerular pathology.
  • It discusses novel targeted therapies for these conditions.

Key Points:

  • Emerging therapies aim to modulate complement activity.
  • These therapies are in late-stage clinical development or recently approved.
  • Potential benefits and challenges of complement inhibition are explored.

Conclusions:

  • Targeting the complement system represents a promising therapeutic strategy for glomerular diseases.
  • Further research is needed to optimize treatment and overcome challenges.

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