Role of complement in graft rejection after organ transplantation.
Activation of the complement system may significantly contribute to the inflammatory reaction after solid organ transplantation. In allotransplantation, the complement system may be activated by ischemia/reperfusion and, possibly, by antibodies directed against the graft. In xenotransplantation from nonprimates to primates, the major activators for complement are preexisting antibodies. Studies in animal models have shown that the use of complement inhibitors may significantly prolong graft survival. This review describes the role of the complement system in organ injury after organ transplantation and the use of complement inhibitors to prevent damage to the graft after allo- or xenotransplantation.
Bos
Ineke G A
IG
Department of Immunopathology, Sanquin Research at CLB, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Ten Berge
Ineke J M
IJ
Hack
C Erik
CE
D000818:Animals; D003167:Complement Activation / Q000187:drug effects / Q000276:immunology / Q000502:physiology; D003165:Complement System Proteins / Q000187:drug effects / Q000276:immunology*; D006084:Graft Rejection / Q000209:etiology* / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D016377:Organ Transplantation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011951:Receptors, Complement / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors
D011951:Receptors, Complement; D003165:Complement System Proteins