Structure and biology of complement protein C3, a connecting link between innate and acquired immunity

摘要: Complement protein C3 is a central molecule in the complement system whose activation essential for all important functions performed by this system. After four decades of research it now well established that like double-edged sword: on one hand promotes phagocytosis, supports local inflammatory responses against pathogens, and instructs adaptive immune response to select appropriate antigens humoral response; other its unregulated leads host cell damage. In addition, interactions with proteins foreign pathogens may provide mechanism which these microorganisms evade attack. Therefore, clear knowledge at molecular level not only allow rational design adjuvants but also lead development inhibitors new therapeutic agents infectious diseases.