The add-on system
Today, after more than a century of exhaustive research, the complement system has been shown to be an intricate network of proteins, both plasma and tissue-bound. Its mechanism of action resembles that of other enzyme systems, as its activation is triggered in a cascade, similar to what occurs in the kinin and coagulation systems. Complement plays a central role as the main effector mechanism of humoral immunity and possesses considerable inflammatory potential.
Currently, more than 30 proteins, present in both blood serum and on the surface of various cells, are known to participate in this system. Given its capacity to cause inflammation and tissue damage when activated, its relevance in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases is fundamental in the field of clinical immunology.
Bibliography:
Kuby's Immunology, 6th Edition.
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