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Activation of the alternative (properdin) pathway by divalent cations
Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|September 1, 1975
Summary
Divalent cations like magnesium, manganese, and cobalt activate the complement system. These ions can trigger the alternative pathway of the complement system without other activators.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The complement system is a crucial part of innate immunity.
- The alternative pathway is one of the main activation routes of the complement system.
- Understanding complement activation is vital for developing immunotherapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of divalent cations in activating the complement system.
- To determine if specific cations can trigger the alternative pathway independently.
Main Methods:
- Assessing complement system activation by measuring hemolysis reduction.
- Analyzing the cleavage of complement components properdin factor B and C3.
- Testing the effects of magnesium (Mg++), manganese (Mn++), and cobalt (Co++) on dialyzed sera.
Main Results:
- Mg++, Mn++, and Co++ were found to activate the complement system.
- These cations reduced cobra venom factor-induced hemolysis.
- Cleavage of properdin factor B and C3 was observed in the presence of these cations.
- Maximum activation occurred with 5 to 10 mM concentrations of the cations.
Conclusions:
- Divalent cations Mg++, Mn++, and Co++ can activate the complement system.
- These cations are capable of triggering the alternative pathway of complement activation.
- The alternative pathway can be initiated by these divalent cations without the need for additional activating agents.