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Complement Inhibition in the Clinic: Are We Doing Enough to Protect Patients From Infection?
Serena Bettoni1, Ebba Qviberg1, Edward Chaloner2
1School of Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK.
European Journal of Immunology
|July 2, 2026
Summary
Therapeutic complement inhibition aids disease control but increases infection risks. Strategies like vaccination and new inhibitors are crucial for managing these complications and improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The complement system, discovered as a heat-sensitive plasma factor, is vital for immunity, inflammation, and debris clearance.
- It bridges innate and adaptive immunity but its dysregulation drives pathogenic inflammation and self-tissue damage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review infection risks associated with therapeutic complement inhibition.
- To outline emerging strategies for mitigating these infectious complications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on complement system function and therapeutic inhibition.
- Analysis of infection risks and protective measures associated with complement blockade.
Main Results:
- Therapeutic complement inhibition, especially at C3/C5 levels, increases susceptibility to encapsulated bacteria (e.g., Neisseria meningitidis) and other pathogens.
- Emerging mitigation approaches include optimized vaccination, antimicrobial prophylaxis, and patient education.
Conclusions:
- Targeting the complement system is a key strategy for autoimmune and inflammatory disorders.
- Mitigating infection risks through enhanced protective measures is vital for safe and effective complement inhibition therapy.
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