Complement

The complement system is a complex series of proteins that act as a cascade. They react in the sequence C1q, C1r, C1s, C4, C2, C3, C5, C6, C7, C8, C9; many requiring proteolytic cleavage to become active. The cascade is activated either via the Classical Pathway, the Alternative Pathway or the Lectin Pathway. Complement proteins are assayed to measure complement consumption and to diagnose inherited deficiencies of the individual cascade components.

Binding Site offers both automated and manual solutions for the evaluation of both Human Complement Function and for Specific Complement Proteins

Human Complement Functional Assays

Complement functional assays are used as screening tools to detect complement deficiencies and to aid in the monitoring of total complement activity.

The measurement of CH50 is recommended as part of the diagnostic protocol for Primary Immunodeficiency and it can also provide important information for many other disease states such as systemic lupus erythematosus and bacterial infections. The measurement of CH50 can be automated on the Optilite^® .

Human Complement Proteins

Where a complement deficiency is suspected it may be necessary to test for the specific components of the complement system.

Measurement of Complement Deficiencies

Complement is involved in initiating an inflammatory response and destroying certain bacteria and viruses. Complement proteins are assayed to measure complement consumption and to diagnose inherited deficiencies of cascade components.