title: The non-classical functions of the classical complement pathway recognition subcomponent C1q.
abstract: C1q, the ligand recognition subcomponent of the classical complement pathway has steadily been gaining recognition as a bridge between innate and adaptive immunity. C1q has been shown to be involved in the modulation of various immune cells (such as dendritic cells, platelets, microglia cells and lymphocytes), clearance of apoptotic cells, a range of cell processes such as differentiation, chemotaxis, aggregation and adhesion, and pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and systemic lupus erythematosus. Recent studies have highlighted the importance of C1q during pregnancy, coagulation process and embryonic development including neurological synapse function. It is intriguing to note that a prototypical defence molecule has so many diverse functions that probably have its origin in its versatility as a potent charge pattern recognition molecule, modularity within the ligand-recognising globular domain, and the redundancy of putative C1q receptors. The range of function that C1q has been shown to perform also provides clues for the undiscovered functions of a number of C1q family members.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Infection, Immunity and Disease Mechanisms, Biosciences, School of Health Sciences and Social Care, Brunel University, Uxbridge, London UB8 3PH, UK.
authors.forename: Annapurna
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Nayak
authors.forename: Janez
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Ferluga
authors.forename: Anthony G
authors.initials: AG
authors.lastname: Tsolaki
authors.forename: Uday
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Kishore
mesh_terms: D056704:Adaptive Immunity; D000818:Animals; D017209:Apoptosis; D001777:Blood Coagulation; D002450:Cell Communication; D015922:Complement C1q / Q000172:deficiency / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism*; D003171:Complement Pathway, Classical; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007113:Immunity, Innate; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000276:immunology*; D019636:Neurodegenerative Diseases / Q000276:immunology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D015922:Complement C1q