[The biological importance of C-reactive proteins in non-specific defense mechanisms]

The C-reactive serum protein (CRP) is a classical acute-phase reactant of increasing diagnostical value in clinical practice. It is drastically elevated during reactions of inflammation and tissue destruction, and it binds selectively to necrotic cells of inflamed tissue. The phylogenetically rather ancient protein displays a cyclic pentameric symmetry (pentraxin). CRP undergoes specific binding to phosphocholine esters, polycations and galactans (lectin character). Aggregated CRP activates complement, has opsonin properties and interacts with lymphocytes and thrombocytes. Probably CRP is part of an early unspecific protective mechanism, whereby potentially toxic materials can be detected and eliminated.