The complement system and age-related macular degeneration.
OBJECTIVE
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the developed world. There are increasing evidences to suggest the complement system may play a significant role on the pathogenesis of AMD. In this review, we summarise the current research in this area.


METHODS
Review of literature.


RESULTS
The complement system is a complex system with several activation pathways. Complement factor H (CFH) polymorphisms has been associated with increase risk of AMD. CFH is an inhibitor protein; the polymorphisms might cause uncontrolled activation by initiation events.


CONCLUSIONS
Further studies on the molecular basis of the complement-mediated pathogenesis of AMD may offer novel therapy to AMD.
Sivaprasad
S
S
Laser and Retinal Research Unit, King's College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, UK.
Chong
N V
NV
D003167:Complement Activation / Q000276:immunology; D003165:Complement System Proteins / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D008268:Macular Degeneration / Q000276:immunology*; D009389:Neovascularization, Pathologic / Q000276:immunology; D018384:Oxidative Stress / Q000276:immunology; D011110:Polymorphism, Genetic / Q000276:immunology
D003165:Complement System Proteins