Complement in Autoimmunity

George C. Tsokos

Complement protein expression and activation control central aspects of the normal B cell response. Imbalances in these processes invariably lead to autoimmune disease. Complement activation causes tissue damage in a number of ways and may by itself lead to autoimmune disease. Although the use of complement activation inhibitors in the treatment of complement-mediated tissue injury and disease is largely in pre-clinical trials, the expectations that they will be of significant clinical value are high.

This volume contains a series of review articles that address the role of complement in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease and the ensuing tissue damage. Topics include structural and functional aspects of the CD19/CD21/CD81 complex, role of the complement system in the expression of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. Also featured is the role of complement activation in ischemia/reperfusion and autoimmune disease injury. Finally, in-depth reviews about complement activation in the development of glomerulonephritis in autoimmune disease and the function of membrane-bound complement regulatory proteins in autoimmunity are presented.

Herausgeber Karger