Welcome to

 

The Complement Research Group Lund University

Introduction

Complement is an important part of our immune system and is composed of more than 30 soluble or membrane bound proteins. These proteins interact with each other when the system encounters various stimuli, for example antigen-antibody complexes or microbial surfaces. Activation occurs by three pathways: the classical, the alternative or the lectin pathway. All pathways lead to activation of C3 and C5-C9 resulting in enhanced phagocytosis, recruitment of effector cells and cytotoxic effects. Complement is also involved in antibody responses. Complement deficiencies are associated with development of autoimmune diseases such as SLE and susceptibility to infection.

Our research is focused on the following main themes:

Figure: Complement System:

The International Complement Workshop