Is complement good, bad, or both? New functions of the complement factors associated with inflammation mechanisms in the central nervous system.
The complement system is well known as an enzyme cascade that helps to defend against infections. Indeed, this ancestral system bridges innate and adaptive immunity. Its implication in diseases of the central nervous system (CNS), has led to an increased number of studies. Complement activation in the CNS has been generally considered to contribute to tissue damage. However, recent studies suggest that complement may be neuroprotective, and can participate in maintenance and repair of the adult brain. Here, we will review this dual role of complement proteins and some of their functional interactions with part of the chemokine and cytokine network associated with the protection of CNS integrity.
Tahtouh
Muriel
M
Université de Lille 1, Sciences et Technologies, Laboratoire de Neuro-Immunologie des Annélides, CNRS FRE 2933, IFR 147, Villeneuve d'Ascq, France.
Croq
Françoise
F
Lefebvre
Christophe
C
Pestel
Joël
J
D000818:Animals; D002490:Central Nervous System / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology*; D003165:Complement System Proteins / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000276:immunology* / Q000473:pathology
D003165:Complement System Proteins