Consequences of dysregulated complement regulators on red blood cells

The complement system represents the first line of defense that is involved in the clearance of pathogens, dying cells and immune complexes via opsonization, induction of an inflammatory response and the formation of a lytic pore. Red blood cells (RBCs) are very important for the delivery of oxygen to tissues and are continuously in contact with complement proteins in the blood plasma. To prevent complement activation on RBCs, various complement regulatory proteins can be found in plasma and on the cell membrane.

Source: Blood Reviews - February 4, 2018 Category: Hematology Authors: Astrid J.F. Thielen, Sacha Zeerleder, Diana Wouters Tags: Review Source Type: research