Gosset Complement Factor H Overview
Complement factor H (CFH) is a key regulatory glycoprotein in the alternative pathway of the complement system, a crucial component of innate immunity. It modulates complement activation and protects host tissues from unintended damage by competing with factor B for binding to C3b, accelerating decay of C3 convertases, and acting as a cofactor for factor I-mediated inactivation of C3b. CFH binds to polyanionic molecules on host cells, enhancing its affinity for self-tissues. Dysregulation or genetic variants in CFH are associated with diseases such as atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Mechanism of Action
Targets CFH would aim to modulate its activity, either enhancing it to further suppress complement activation (in diseases with CFH deficiency or dysfunction) or inhibiting it (in diseases where CFH contributes to excessive complement activation).
Biological Functions
Disease Associations
Safety Considerations
- Potential for increased susceptibility to infection if CFH activity is excessively inhibited.
- Off-target effects on other complement pathways or immune functions.
Associated Biomarkers
| Biomarker |
|---|
| CFH plasma levels (for deficiency) |
| CFH genetic variants (risk assessment) |