Complement

Abstract

Complement at the Interface between Innate and Adaptive ImmunityThe formation of an antibody–antigen complex (immune complex) is the principal way of activating the classical pathway of the complement system. C1q, an integral part of the first component of complement (C1), triggers the activation process when it docks onto antibodies within these immune complexes. In this way, C1q acts to bridge the innate and adaptive immune systems.Complement also has an important role in the induction of antibody responses.⁶² This was shown first by Pepys, who demonstrated that the formation of antibodies against T-cell–dependent antigens was reduced in animals in . . .