Ramanathan, V D
(1991)
The pathophysiology of the complement system in leprosy.
Indian Journal of Leprosy, 63 (3&4).
pp. 418-434.
ISSN 0024-1024
Abstract
The complement system, which consists of a group of proteins and
glycoproteins, generally serves to amplify the effects of the interaction of antigen
with antibody. In addition, this system, independent of immune mechanisms, can
initiate inflammatory responses and function as an important first line of defence.
Furthermore, complement plays a cardinal role in metabolising antigen-antibody
complexes. More recently, the immunomodulatory effects of several of its
components are also being studied.
It is currently held that the elimination of Mycobacterium leprae from the
human host is mainly through the T-lymphocytes and macrophages and that the
complement system is not involved in this process. Nevertheless, in view of the
active interaction of M. leprae with the complement system and the form&on of
large amounts of immune complexes(IC) in leprosy, the importance of this system
in modulating certain immunopathogenetic phenomena is being recognized now. In
this communication, the current state knowledge in this field will be reviewed
and an attempt will be made to identify possible areas of future research where
lacunae exist.
Actions (login required)
 |
View Item |