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Nature Research, Nature Immunology, 9(11), p. 785-797, 2010

DOI: 10.1038/ni.1923

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Complement - a key system for immune surveillance and homeostasis

Journal article published in 2010 by Daniel Ricklin ORCID, George Hajishengallis ORCID, Kun Yang, K. Kun Yang, John D. Lambris
This paper is available in a repository.
This paper is available in a repository.

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Abstract

Nearly a century after the significance of the human complement system was recognized we have come to realize that its versatile functions extend far beyond the elimination of microbes. Indeed, complement acts as a rapid and efficient immune surveillance system that has distinct effects on healthy and altered host cells and foreign intruders. By eliminating cellular debris and infectious microbes, orchestrating immune responses, and sending `danger' signals, complement contributes substantially to homeostasis, but it may also take action against healthy cells if not properly controlled. This review describes our updated view of the function, structure, and dynamics of the complement network, highlights its interconnection with immunity at large and with other endogenous pathways, and illustrates its dual role in homeostasis and disease.