Interaction of Autologous Complement with Red Cells in the Absence of Antibody.

Abstract

Summary The molecular interaction between complement and red cells has been analyzed in autologous human systems. Instead of anti-red cell antibody, polyethylene glycol was used as a non-specific sensitizer. It was found that as a result of complement-cell membrane interaction, certain complement components form a direct and firm link with membrane receptors. Polyethylene glycol mediates the action of complement on cells apparently through reversible aggregation of γ-globulin, Cell bound neuraminic acid seems to have a protective effect against the cytolytic action of complement. In the autologous system employed, significant uptake of complement and subsequent hemoly-sis occurred only after pre-treatment of the red cells with trypsin or neuraminidase.