A crystal structure of the complex between human complement receptor 2 and its ligand C3d

Structural basis for complement receptor engagement and virus neutralization through Epstein-Barr virus gp350

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) causes infectious mononucleosis and is associated with malignancies in humans. Viral infection of B cells is initiated by the viral glycoprotein 350 (gp350) binding to complement receptor 2 (CR2). Despite decades of effort, no vaccines or curative agents have been developed, partly due to lack of atomic-level understanding of the virus-host interface. Here, we determined the 1.7 Å structure of gp350 in complex with CR2. CR2 binding of gp350 utilized the same set of Arg residues required for recognition of its natural ligand, complement C3d. We further determined the structures of gp350 in complex with three potently neutralizing antibodies (nAbs) obtained from vaccinated macaques and EBV-infected individuals. Like the CR2 interaction, these nAbs targeted the acidic pocket within the CR2-binding site on gp350 using Arg residues. Our results illustrate two axes of molecular mimicry-gp350 versus C3d and CR2 versus EBV nAbs-offering insights for EBV vaccines and therapeutics development.

Reliability of Serum-Derived Connectome Indicators in Identifying Cirrhosis

Patients with cirrhosis face a heightened risk of complications, underscoring the importance of identification. We have developed a Connectome strategy that combines metabolites with peptide spectral matching (PSM) in proteomics to integrate metabolomics and proteomics, identifying specific metabolites bound to blood proteins in cirrhosis using open search proteomics methods. Analysis methods including Partial Least Squares Discriminant Analysis (PLS-DA), Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection (UMAP), and hierarchical clustering were used to distinguish significant differences among the Cirrhosis group, Chronic Hepatitis B (CHB) group, and Healthy group. In this study, we identified 81 cirrhosis-associated connectomes and established an effective model distinctly distinguishing cirrhosis from chronic hepatitis B and healthy samples, confirmed by PLS-DA, hierarchical clustering analysis, and UMAP analysis, and further validated using six new cirrhosis samples. We established a Unified Indicator for Identifying cirrhosis, including tyrosine, Unnamed_189.2, thiazolidine, etc., which not only enables accurate identification of cirrhosis groups but was also further validated using six new cirrhosis samples and extensively supported by other cirrhosis research data (PXD035024). Our study reveals that characteristic cirrhosis connectomes can reliably distinguish cirrhosis from CHB and healthy groups. The established unified cirrhotic indicator facilitates the identification of cirrhosis cases in both this study and additional research data.

Molecular mechanism of complement inhibition by the trypanosome receptor ISG65

African trypanosomes replicate within infected mammals where they are exposed to the complement system. This system centres around complement C3, which is present in a soluble form in serum but becomes covalently deposited onto the surfaces of pathogens after proteolytic cleavage to C3b. Membrane-associated C3b triggers different complement-mediated effectors which promote pathogen clearance. To counter complement-mediated clearance, African trypanosomes have a cell surface receptor, ISG65, which binds to C3b and which decreases the rate of trypanosome clearance in an infection model. However, the mechanism by which ISG65 reduces C3b function has not been determined. We reveal through cryogenic electron microscopy that ISG65 has two distinct binding sites for C3b, only one of which is available in C3 and C3d. We show that ISG65 does not block the formation of C3b or the function of the C3 convertase which catalyses the surface deposition of C3b. However, we show that ISG65 forms a specific conjugate with C3b, perhaps acting as a decoy. ISG65 also occludes the binding sites for complement receptors 2 and 3, which may disrupt recruitment of immune cells, including B cells, phagocytes, and granulocytes. This suggests that ISG65 protects trypanosomes by combining multiple approaches to dampen the complement cascade.

Identification and structural analysis of dimeric chicken complement component 3d and its binding with chicken complement receptor 2

Complement component 3d (C3d), the final cleavage product of complement component C3, interacts with CR2 and thus plays a crucial role in linking the innate and adaptive immune systems. Additionally, human C3d executes various functions in its dimeric form, which is more effective than its monomeric form. In this study, we aimed to explored whether chicken C3d (chC3d) exhibits similar characteristics, namely dimerization and binding of dimeric chC3d to chicken CR2 (chCR2). We investigated the interaction and co-localization of chC3d with itself using coimmunoprecipitation and confocal laser scanning microscopy, respectively. Then, dimeric chC3d was detected using native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and western blotting, and its equilibrium dissociation constant KD (827 nM) was determined using surface plasmon resonance. Finally, the interaction modes of dimeric chC3d were identified using molecular docking simulations, which revealed that dimeric chC3d could crosslink with chCR2 receptor. Overall, our findings will facilitate future explorations of the chicken complement system.

Inhibition of acute complement responses towards bolus-injected nanoparticles using targeted short-circulating regulatory proteins

Effective inhibition of the complement system is needed to prevent the accelerated clearance of nanomaterials by complement cascade and inflammatory responses. Here we show that a fusion construct consisting of human complement receptor 2 (CR2) (which recognizes nanosurface-deposited complement 3 (C3)) and complement receptor 1 (CR1) (which blocks C3 convertases) inhibits complement activation with picomolar to low nanomolar efficacy on many types of nanomaterial. We demonstrate that only a small percentage of nanoparticles are randomly opsonized with C3 both in vitro and in vivo, and CR2-CR1 immediately homes in on this subpopulation. Despite rapid in vivo clearance, the co-injection of CR2-CR1 in rats, or its mouse orthologue CR2-Crry in mice, with superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles nearly completely blocks complement opsonization and unwanted granulocyte/monocyte uptake. Furthermore, the inhibitor completely prevents lethargy caused by bolus-injected nanoparticles, without inducing long-lasting complement suppression. These findings suggest the potential of the targeted complement regulators for clinical evaluation.

Structural biology of complement receptors

The complement system plays crucial roles in a wide breadth of immune and inflammatory processes and is frequently cited as an etiological or aggravating factor in many human diseases, from asthma to cancer. Complement receptors encompass at least eight proteins from four structural classes, orchestrating complement-mediated humoral and cellular effector responses and coordinating the complex cross-talk between innate and adaptive immunity. The progressive increase in understanding of the structural features of the main complement factors, activated proteolytic fragments, and their assemblies have spurred a renewed interest in deciphering their receptor complexes. In this review, we describe what is currently known about the structural biology of the complement receptors and their complexes with natural agonists and pharmacological antagonists. We highlight the fundamental concepts and the gray areas where issues and problems have been identified, including current research gaps. We seek to offer guidance into the structural biology of the complement system as structural information underlies fundamental and therapeutic research endeavors. Finally, we also indicate what we believe are potential developments in the field.

Fusion of the molecular adjuvant C3d to cleavage-independent native-like HIV-1 Env trimers improves the elicited antibody response

An effective HIV vaccine likely requires the elicitation of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against multiple HIV-1 clades. The recently developed cleavage-independent native flexibly linked (NFL) envelope (Env) trimers exhibit well-ordered conformation and elicit autologous tier 2 NAbs in multiple animal models. Here, we investigated whether the fusion of molecular adjuvant C3d to the Env trimers can improve B- cell germinal center (GC) formation and antibody responses. To generate Env-C3d trimers, we performed a glycine-serine- based (G4S) flexible peptide linker screening and identified a linker range that allowed native folding. A 30-60- amino- acid- long linker facilitates Env-to-C3d association and achieves the secretion of well-ordered trimers and the structural integrity and functional integrity of Env and C3d. The fusion of C3d did not dramatically affect the antigenicity of the Env trimers and enhanced the ability of the Env trimers to engage and activate B cells in vitro. In mice, the fusion of C3d enhanced germinal center formation, the magnitude of Env-specific binding antibodies, and the avidity of the antibodies in the presence of an adjuvant. The Sigma Adjuvant System (SAS) did not affect the trimer integrity in vitro but contributed to altered immunogenicity in vivo, resulting in increased tier 1 neutralization, likely by increased exposure of variable region 3 (V3). Taken together, the results indicate that the fusion of the molecular adjuvant, C3d, to the Env trimers improves antibody responses and could be useful for Env-based vaccines against HIV.

C3-dependent effector functions of complement

C3 is the central effector molecule of the complement system, mediating its multiple functions through different binding sites and their corresponding receptors. We will introduce the C3 forms (native C3, C3 [H₂ O], and intracellular C3), the C3 fragments C3a, C3b, iC3b, and C3dg/C3d, and the C3 expression sites. To highlight the important role that C3 plays in human biological processes, we will give an overview of the diseases linked to C3 deficiency and to uncontrolled C3 activation. Next, we will present a structural description of C3 activation and of the C3 fragments generated by complement regulation. We will proceed by describing the C3a interaction with the anaphylatoxin receptor, followed by the interactions of opsonins (C3b, iC3b, and C3dg/C3d) with complement receptors, divided into two groups: receptors bearing complement regulatory functions and the effector receptors without complement regulatory activity. We outline the molecular architecture of the receptors, their binding sites on the C3 activation fragments, the cells expressing them, the diversity of their functions, and recent advances. With this review, we aim to give an up-to-date analysis of the processes triggered by C3 activation fragments on different cell types in health and disease contexts.

Identification of a novel mutation in complement receptor 2 in Chinese familial systemic lupus erythematosus

Objectives

This study aims to analyze the relationship between complement receptor 2 (CR2) gene mutation and the clinical phenotype in Chinese familial systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Patients and methods

A total of one Chinese familial SLE patients (median age: 30.25 years; range, 22 to 49 years) were included between January 2017 and December 2018. The clinical features and diagnoses of familial SLE patients were analyzed using whole-exome sequencing (WES) of genomic deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) samples. Sanger sequencing was used to verify candidate mutations detected in the examined family.

Results

The mother and her three daughters were diagnosed with SLE. The clinical characteristics showed that the patient and her mother were diagnosed with lupus nephritis. The eldest daughter had decreased renal function and lower serum albumin levels. Immunological index analysis showed that all four patients were positive for anti-SSA and antinuclear antibody (ANA), but that only the second daughter was positive for anti-double-stranded DNA (dsDNA). Complement 3 (C3) was significantly decreased in all patients, while evaluation of the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) showed that the second and third daughters had mild active SLE. The mother and eldest daughter were treated with prednisolone combined with cyclophosphamide, while the other two daughters were treated with prednisolone alone. The WES and Sanger sequencing analyses revealed an unreported missense T>C mutation c.2804 in the 15^th exon of the CR gene in all four patients.

Conclusion

We identified a novel c.2804 (exon 15) T>C mutation in the CR gene of Chinese familial SLE. This mutation was previously reported, suggesting that the CR gene c.2804 (exon 15) T>C mutation is the probable cause of SLE in this family.

Development and Optimization of Bifunctional Fusion Proteins to Locally Modulate Complement Activation in Diseased Tissue

Sustained complement activation is an underlying pathologic driver in many inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Currently approved anti-complement therapies are directed at the systemic blockade of complement. Consequently, these therapies provide widespread inhibition of complement pathway activity, beyond the site of ongoing activation and the intended pharmacodynamic (PD) effects. Given the essential role for complement in both innate and adaptive immunity, there is a need for therapies that inhibit complement in diseased tissue while limiting systemic blockade. One potential approach focuses on the development of novel fusion proteins that enable tissue-targeted delivery of complement negative regulatory proteins. These therapies are expected to provide increased potency and prolonged tissue PD, decreased dosing frequency, and the potential for improved safety profiles. We created a library of bifunctional fusion proteins that direct a fragment of the complement negative regulator, complement receptor type 1 (CR1) to sites of tissue injury. Tissue targeting is accomplished through the binding of the fusion protein to complement C3 fragments that contain a surface-exposed C3d domain and which are covalently deposited on tissues where complement is being activated. To that end, we generated a fusion protein that contains an anti-C3d monoclonal antibody recombinantly linked to the first 10 consensus repeats of CR1 (CR11-10) with the intention of delivering high local concentrations of this complement negative regulatory domain to tissue-bound complement C3 fragments iC3b, C3dg and C3d. Biochemical and in vitro characterization identified several fusion proteins that inhibit complement while maintaining the C3d domain binding properties of the parent monoclonal antibody. Preclinical in vivo studies further demonstrate that anti-C3d fusion proteins effectively distribute to injured tissue and reduce C3 fragment deposition for periods beyond 14 days. The in vitro and in vivo profiles support the further evaluation of C3d mAb-CR11-10 as a novel approach to restore proper complement activation in diseased tissue in the absence of continuous systemic complement blockade.

Complement component C3: A structural perspective and potential therapeutic implications

As the most abundant component of the complement system, C3 and its proteolytic derivatives serve essential roles in the function of all three complement pathways. Central to this is a network of protein-protein interactions made possible by the sequential proteolysis and far-reaching structural changes that accompany C3 activation. Beginning with the crystal structures of C3, C3b, and C3c nearly twenty years ago, the physical transformations underlying C3 function that had long been suspected were finally revealed. In the years that followed, a compendium of crystallographic information on C3 derivatives bound to various enzymes, regulators, receptors, and inhibitors generated new levels of insight into the structure and function of the C3 molecule. This Review provides a concise classification, summary, and interpretation of the more than 50 unique crystal structure determinations for human C3. It also highlights other salient features of C3 structure that were made possible through solution-based methods, including Hydrogen/Deuterium Exchange and Small Angle X-ray Scattering. At this pivotal time when the first C3-targeted therapeutics begin to see use in the clinic, some perspectives are also offered on how this continually growing body of structural information might be leveraged for future development of next-generation C3 inhibitors.

Insights Into the Structure-Function Relationships of Dimeric C3d Fragments

Cleavage of C3 to C3a and C3b plays a central role in the generation of complement-mediated defences. Although the thioester-mediated surface deposition of C3b has been well-studied, fluid phase dimers of C3 fragments remain largely unexplored. Here we show C3 cleavage results in the spontaneous formation of C3b dimers and present the first X-ray crystal structure of a disulphide-linked human C3d dimer. Binding studies reveal these dimers are capable of crosslinking complement receptor 2 and preliminary cell-based analyses suggest they could modulate B cell activation to influence tolerogenic pathways. Altogether, insights into the physiologically-relevant functions of C3d(g) dimers gained from our findings will pave the way to enhancing our understanding surrounding the importance of complement in the fluid phase and could inform the design of novel therapies for immune system disorders in the future.

Predicted structural mimicry of spike receptor-binding motifs from highly pathogenic human coronaviruses

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Potential coronavirus spike protein mimicry revealed by structural comparison.

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Human and non-human protein potential interactions with virus identified.

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Predicted structural mimicry corroborated by protein–protein docking.

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Epitope-based alignments may help guide vaccine efforts.

Viruses often encode proteins that mimic host proteins in order to facilitate infection. Little work has been done to understand the potential mimicry of the SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV spike proteins, particularly the receptor-binding motifs, which could be important in determining tropism and druggability of the virus. Peptide and epitope motifs have been detected on coronavirus spike proteins using sequence homology approaches; however, comparing the three-dimensional shape of the protein has been shown as more informative in predicting mimicry than sequence-based comparisons. Here, we use structural bioinformatics software to characterize potential mimicry of the three coronavirus spike protein receptor-binding motifs. We utilize sequence-independent alignment tools to compare structurally known protein models with the receptor-binding motifs and verify potential mimicked interactions with protein docking simulations. Both human and non-human proteins were returned for all three receptor-binding motifs. For example, all three were similar to several proteins containing EGF-like domains: some of which are endogenous to humans, such as thrombomodulin, and others exogenous, such as Plasmodium falciparum MSP-1. Similarity to human proteins may reveal which pathways the spike protein is co-opting, while analogous non-human proteins may indicate shared host interaction partners and overlapping antibody cross-reactivity. These findings can help guide experimental efforts to further understand potential interactions between human and coronavirus proteins.

Cloning and structural analysis of complement component 3d in wild birds provides insight into its functional evolution

Complement component 3 d (C3d) is the final cleavage product of the complement component C3 and serves as a crucial role in link innate and adaptive immunity, and increase B-cell sensitivity to an antigen by 1000-10000 fold. The crystal structure of human C3d revealed there are two distinct surfaces, a convex surface containing the thioester-constituting residues that mediate covalent binding to the target antigen, and a concave surface with an acidic pocket responsible for interaction with CR2. In this study, we cloned and sequenced cDNA fragment encoding C3d region from 15 wild bird species. Then, the C3d sequences from wild birds, chicken and mammals were aligned to construct phylogenetic trees. Phylogenetic tree displayed two main branches, indicating mammals and birds, but the bird C3d branch was divided into two main parts, with five wild birds (Ardeola bacchus, Zoothera, Bubo, Crossoptilon mantchuricum and Caprimulgus europaeus) clustering much closer to mammals. In addition, the C3d proteins of Ardeola bacchus, Bubo, Crossoptilon mantchuricum and Caprimulgus europaeus contained a Glu163 residue at the position at which Lys163 was found in other birds. However, Glu163 have the same charge polarity as Asp163, which is the key amino acid residue comprising the acidic pocket combined with CR2 found at this position in mammals, and Zoothera also possessed Asp163 at this position. Structure modeling analyses also verified that the C3ds of these five wild bird species exhibited the amino acid sequence and structure comprising the typical acidic pocket found in mammals that is required for combination with B cell surface receptors, which contribute electrostatic forces to interact with CR2. Our investigations indicate that some bird C3ds may already have the ability to bind with CR2 by electrostatic force, like mammals. As Ardeola bacchus, Zoothera, Bubo, Crossoptilon mantchuricum and Caprimulgus europaeus have more typical C3d concave acid pockets and thus a stronger ability to bind CR2, we speculate that these five wild birds may have a solider immunity against pathogens. Our phylogenetic and structural analyses of bird C3ds provide insights on the evolutionary divergence in the function of immune factors of avian and mammalian.

Staging of astrocytopathy and complement activation in neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders

Aquaporin 4 (AQP4)-IgG-positive neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (AQP4-IgG+NMOSD) is an autoimmune astrocytopathic disease pathologically characterized by the massive destruction and regeneration of astrocytes with diverse types of tissue injury with or without complement deposition. However, it is unknown whether this diversity is derived from differences in pathological processes or temporal changes. Furthermore, unlike for the demyelinating lesions in multiple sclerosis, there has been no staging of astrocytopathy in AQP4-IgG+NMOSD based on astrocyte morphology. Therefore, we classified astrocytopathy of the disease by comparing the characteristic features, such as AQP4 loss, inflammatory cell infiltration, complement deposition and demyelination activity, with the clinical phase. We performed histopathological analyses in eight autopsied cases of AQP4-IgG+NMOSD. There were six women and two men, with a median age of 56.5 years (range, 46-71 years) and a median disease duration of 62.5 months (range, 0.6-252 months). Astrocytopathy in AQP4-IgG+NMOSD was classified into the following four stages defined by the astrocyte morphology and immunoreactivity for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP): (a) astrocyte lysis: Extensive loss of astrocytes with fragmented and/or dust-like particles; (b) progenitor recruitment: Loss of astrocytes except small nucleated cells with GFAP-positive fibre-forming foot processes; (c) protoplasmic gliosis: Presence of star-shaped astrocytes with abundant GFAP-reactive cytoplasm; and (d) fibrous gliosis: Lesions composed of densely packed mature astrocytes. The astrocyte lysis and progenitor recruitment stages dominated in clinically acute cases (within 2 months after the last recurrence). Findings common to both stages were the loss of AQP4, a decreased number of oligodendrocytes, the selective loss of myelin-associated glycoprotein and active demyelination with phagocytic macrophages. The infiltration of polymorphonuclear cells and T cells (CD4-dominant) and the deposition of activated complement (C9neo), which reflects the membrane attack complex, a hallmark of acute NMOSD lesions, were selectively observed in the astrocyte lysis stage (98.4% in astrocyte lysis, 1.6% in progenitor recruitment, and 0% in protoplasmic gliosis and fibrous gliosis). Although most of the protoplasmic gliosis and fibrous gliosis lesions were accompanied by inactive demyelinated lesions with a low amount of inflammatory cell infiltration, the deposition of complement degradation product (C3d) was observed in all four stages, even in fibrous gliosis lesions, suggesting the past or chronic occurrence of complement activation, which is a useful finding to distinguish chronic lesions in NMOSD from those in multiple sclerosis. Our staging of astrocytopathy is expected to be useful for understanding the unique temporal pathology of AQP4-IgG+NMOSD.

Physical 'strength' of the multi-protein chain connecting immune cells: Does the weakest link limit antibody affinity maturation?: The weakest link in the multi-protein chain facilitating antigen acquisition by B cells in germinal centres limits antibody affinity maturation

The affinities of antibodies (Abs) for their target antigens (Ags) gradually increase in vivo following an infection or vaccination, but reach saturation at values well below those realisable in vitro. This 'affinity ceiling' could in many cases restrict our ability to fight infections and compromise vaccines. What determines the affinity ceiling has been an unresolved question for decades. Here, we argue that it arises from the strength of the chain of protein complexes that is pulled by B cells during the process of Ag acquisition. The affinity ceiling is determined by the strength of the weakest link in the chain. We identify the weakest link and show that the resulting affinity ceiling can explain the Ab affinities realized in vivo, providing a conceptual understanding of Ab affinity maturation. We explore plausible evolutionary underpinnings of the affinity ceiling, examine supporting evidence and alternative hypotheses and discuss implications for vaccination strategies.

Complement-Mediated Microglial Phagocytosis and Pathological Changes in the Development and Degeneration of the Visual System

The focus of this review is the role of complement-mediated phagocytosis in retinal and neurological diseases affecting the visual system. Complement activation products opsonize synaptic material on neurons for phagocytic removal, which is a normal physiological process during development, but a pathological process in several neurodegenerative diseases and conditions. We discuss the role of complement in the refinement and elimination of synapses in the retina and lateral geniculate nucleus, both during development and in disease states. How complement and aberrant phagocytosis promotes injury to the visual system is discussed primarily in the context of multiple sclerosis, where it has been extensively studied, although the role of complement in visual dysfunction in other diseases such as stroke and traumatic brain injury is also highlighted. Retinal diseases are also covered, with a focus on glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. Finally, we discuss the potential of complement inhibitory strategies to treat diseases affecting the visual system.

Complement Receptor 2 Based Immunoassay Measuring Activation of the Complement System at C3-Level in Plasma Samples From Mice and Humans

We aimed at establishing a sensitive and robust assay for estimation of systemic complement activation at complement component C3 level in mouse and human plasma samples. In order to capture the activation products iC3b and C3dg in a specific and physiological relevant manner we utilized a construct consisting of the iC3b/C3dg-binding site of human complement receptor 2 (CR2) attached to an Fc-part of mouse IgG. This construct binds C3dg and iC3b from both mice and humans. We purified the CR2-IgG construct from mouse B myeloma cell line supernatants, J558L-CR2-IgG, by protein G affinity chromatography. The CR2-IgG construct was used for capturing C3 fragments in microtiter wells and an anti-mouse or an anti-human-C3 antibody was used for detection of bound C3 fragments. Initially we tested the specificity of the assays with the use of purified C3 fragments. Further, with the use of the CR2-based assay, we measured an up to three-fold higher signal in activated mouse serum as compared to non-activated mouse serum, whereas activated serum from a C3 knock-out mouse gave no signal. We tested in vivo generated samples from a mouse experiment; complement activation was induced by injecting cobra venom factor or heat aggregated IgG into C57bl6 mice, followed by withdrawal of EDTA blood samples at different time points and measurement of iC3b/C3dg. We observed a clear time-dependent distinction in signals between samples with expected high and low complement activation. Furthermore, with the use of the assay for human C3 fragments, we observed that patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (n = 144) had significantly higher iC3b/C3dg levels as compared to healthy individuals (n = 144) (p < 0.0001). We present two functional immunoassays, that are able to measure systemic levels of the C3-activation products iC3b and C3dg in mice and humans. To our knowledge, these are the first assays for complement activation that use a physiological relevant capture construct such as CR2. These assays will be a relevant tool when investigating mouse models and human diseases involving the complement system.

A C3-specific nanobody that blocks all three activation pathways in the human and murine complement system

The complement system is a tightly controlled proteolytic cascade in the innate immune system, which tags intruding pathogens and dying host cells for clearance. An essential protein in this process is complement component C3. Uncontrolled complement activation has been implicated in several human diseases and disorders and has spurred the development of therapeutic approaches that modulate the complement system. Here, using purified proteins and several biochemical assays and surface plasmon resonance, we report that our nanobody, hC3Nb2, inhibits C3 deposition by all complement pathways. We observe that the hC3Nb2 nanobody binds human native C3 and its degradation products with low nanomolar affinity and does not interfere with the endogenous regulation of C3b deposition mediated by Factors H and I. Using negative stain EM analysis and functional assays, we demonstrate that hC3Nb2 inhibits the substrate-convertase interaction by binding to the MG3 and MG4 domains of C3 and C3b. Furthermore, we notice that hC3Nb2 is cross-reactive and inhibits the lectin and alternative pathway in murine serum. We conclude that hC3Nb2 is a potent, general, and versatile inhibitor of the human and murine complement cascades. Its cross-reactivity suggests that this nanobody may be valuable for analysis of complement activation within animal models of both acute and chronic diseases.

Neuropilin-1 Acts as a Receptor for Complement Split Products

Complement split products (CSPs), such as the fragments C4d and C3d, which are generated as a consequence of complement regulatory processes, are established markers for disease activity in autoimmunity or antibody-mediated graft rejection. Since immunoglobulin-like transcript 4 (ILT4) was previously shown to interact with soluble CSPs, but not with CSPs covalently-bound to target surfaces following classical complement activation, the present study aimed to identify novel cellular receptors interacting with covalently-deposited CSPs. By applying an unbiased screening approach using a cDNA mammalian expression library generated from human monocyte-derived dendritic cells and probed with recombinant human C4d, we identified neuropilin-1 (NRP1) as a novel receptor for C4d, C3d, and iC3b. NRP1, a highly conserved type 1 transmembrane protein, plays important roles in the development of the nervous and cardiovascular system as well as in tumorigenesis through interaction with its established binding partners, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and semaphorin 3A (Sema3A). NRP1 is also expressed on immune cells and serves as a marker for murine Tregs. Although NRP1 contains domains homologous to ones found in some complement proteins, it has not been linked to the complement system. We demonstrate that binding of C4d to NRP1 expressing cells was dose-dependent and saturable, and had a K_D value of 0.71 μM. Importantly, and in contrast to ILT4, NRP1 interacted with CSPs that were covalently bound to target surfaces in the course of complement activation, therefore representing a classical complement receptor. The binding site of CSPs was mapped to the b1 domain of the coagulation factor V/VIII homology domain of NRP1. Taken together, our results demonstrate a novel role for NRP1 as a receptor for CSPs deposited on surfaces during complement activation. Further work is required to elucidate the functional consequences of the NRP1-CSP interactions in immunity.

Complement Evasion: An Effective Strategy That Parasites Utilize to Survive in the Host

Parasitic infections induce host immune responses that eliminate the invading parasites. However, parasites have evolved to develop many strategies to evade host immune attacks and survive in a hostile environment. The complement system acts as the first line of immune defense to eliminate the invading parasites by forming the membrane attack complex (MAC) and promoting an inflammatory reaction on the surface of invading parasites. To date, the complement activation pathway has been precisely delineated; however, the manner in which parasites escape complement attack, as a survival strategy in the host, is not well understood. Increasing evidence has shown that parasites develop sophisticated strategies to escape complement-mediated killing, including (i) recruitment of host complement regulatory proteins on the surface of the parasites to inhibit complement activation; (ii) expression of orthologs of host RCA to inhibit complement activation; and (iii) expression of parasite-encoded proteins, specifically targeting different complement components, to inhibit complement function and formation of the MAC. In this review, we compiled information regarding parasitic abilities to escape host complement attack as a survival strategy in the hostile environment of the host and the mechanisms underlying complement evasion. Effective escape of host complement attack is a crucial step for the survival of parasites within the host. Therefore, those proteins expressed by parasites and involved in the regulation of the complement system have become important targets for the development of drugs and vaccines against parasitic infections.

Utilization of Staphylococcal Immune Evasion Protein Sbi as a Novel Vaccine Adjuvant

Co-ligation of the B cell antigen receptor with complement receptor 2 on B-cells via a C3d-opsonised antigen complex significantly lowers the threshold required for B cell activation. Consequently, fusions of antigens with C3d polymers have shown great potential in vaccine design. However, these linear arrays of C3d multimers do not mimic the natural opsonisation of antigens with C3d. Here we investigate the potential of using the unique complement activating characteristics of Staphylococcal immune-evasion protein Sbi to develop a pro-vaccine approach that spontaneously coats antigens with C3 degradation products in a natural way. We show that Sbi rapidly triggers the alternative complement pathway through recruitment of complement regulators, forming tripartite complexes that act as competitive antagonists of factor H, resulting in enhanced complement consumption. These functional results are corroborated by the structure of the complement activating Sbi-III-IV:C3d:FHR-1 complex. Finally, we demonstrate that Sbi, fused with Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigen Ag85b, causes efficient opsonisation with C3 fragments, thereby enhancing the immune response significantly beyond that of Ag85b alone, providing proof of concept for our pro-vaccine approach.

The molecular mechanism of pH-regulating C3d-CR2 interactions: Insights from molecular dynamics simulation

The interactions of complement receptor 2 (CR2) and the degradation fragment C3d of complement component C3 mediate the innate and adaptive immune systems. Due to the importance of C3d-CR2 interaction in the design of vaccines, many studies have indicated the interactions are pH-dependent. Moreover, C3d-CR2 interactions at pH 5.0 are unknown. To investigate the molecular mechanism of pH-regulating C3d-CR2 interaction, molecular dynamics simulations for C3d-CR2 complex in different pH are performed. Our results revealed that the protonation of His9 in C3d at pH 6.0 slightly weakens C3d-CR2 association as reducing pH from 7.4 to 6.0, initiated from a key hydrogen bond formed between Gly270 and His9 in C3d at pH 6.0. When reducing pH from 6.0 to 5.0, the protonation of His33 in C3d weakens C3d-SCR1 association by changing the hydrogen-bond network of Asp36, Glu37, and Glu39 in C3d with Arg13 in CR2. In addition, the protonation of His90 significantly enhances C3d-SCR2 association. This is because the enhanced hydrogen-bond interactions of His90 with Glu63 and Ser69 of the linker change the conformations of the linker, Cys112-Asn116 and Pro87-Gly91 regions. This study uncovers the molecular mechanism of the mediation of pH on C3d-CR2 interaction, which is valuable for vaccine design.

The Streptococcus agalactiae complement interfering protein combines multiple complement-inhibitory mechanisms by interacting with both C4 and C3 ligands

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) colonizes the human lower intestinal and genital tracts and constitutes a major threat to neonates from pregnant carrier mothers and to adults with underlying morbidity. The pathogen expresses cell-surface virulence factors that enable cell adhesion and penetration and that counteract innate and adaptive immune responses. Among these, the complement interfering protein (CIP) was recently described for its capacity to interact with the human C4b ligand and to interfere with the classical- and lectin-complement pathways. In the present study, we provide evidence that CIP can also interact with C3, C3b, and C3d. Immunoassay-based competition experiments showed that binding of CIP to C3d interferes with the interaction between C3d and the complement receptor 2/cluster of differentiation 21 (CR2/CD21) receptor on B cells. By B-cell intracellular signaling assays, CIP was confirmed to down-regulate CR2/CD21-dependent B-cell activation. The CIP domain involved in C3d binding was mapped via hydrogen deuterium exchange–mass spectrometry. The data obtained reveal a new role for this GBS polypeptide at the interface between the innate and adaptive immune responses, adding a new member to the growing list of virulence factors secreted by gram-positive pathogens that incorporate multiple immunomodulatory functions.—Giussani, S., Pietrocola, G., Donnarumma, D., Norais, N., Speziale, P., Fabbrini, M., Margarit, I. The Streptococcus agalactiae complement interfering protein combines multiple complement-inhibitory mechanisms by interacting with both C4 and C3 ligands.

Structural Immunology of Complement Receptors 3 and 4

Complement receptors (CR) 3 and 4 belong to the family of beta-2 (CD18) integrins. CR3 and CR4 are often co-expressed in the myeloid subsets of leukocytes, but they are also found in NK cells and activated T and B lymphocytes. The heterodimeric ectodomain undergoes considerable conformational change in order to switch the receptor from a structurally bent, ligand-binding in-active state into an extended, ligand-binding active state. CR3 binds the C3d fragment of C3 in a way permitting CR2 also to bind concomitantly. This enables a hand-over of complement-opsonized antigens from the cell surface of CR3-expressing macrophages to the CR2-expressing B lymphocytes, in consequence acting as an antigen presentation mechanism. As a more enigmatic part of their functions, both CR3 and CR4 bind several structurally unrelated proteins, engineered peptides, and glycosaminoglycans. No consensus motif in the proteinaceous ligands has been established. Yet, the experimental evidence clearly suggest that the ligands are primarily, if not entirely, recognized by a single site within the receptors, namely the metal-ion dependent adhesion site (MIDAS). Comparison of some recent identified ligands points to CR3 as inclined to bind positively charged species, while CR4, by contrast, binds strongly negative-charged species, in both cases with the critical involvement of deprotonated, acidic groups as ligands for the Mg²⁺ ion in the MIDAS. These properties place CR3 and CR4 firmly within the realm of modern molecular medicine in several ways. The expression of CR3 and CR4 in NK cells was recently demonstrated to enable complement-dependent cell cytotoxicity toward antibody-coated cancer cells as part of biological therapy, constituting a significant part of the efficacy of such treatment. With the flexible principles of ligand recognition, it is also possible to propose a response of CR3 and CR4 to existing medicines thereby opening a possibility of drug repurposing to influence the function of these receptors. Here, from advances in the structural and cellular immunology of CR3 and CR4, we review insights on their biochemistry and functions in the immune system.

Aspergillus fumigatus conidial metalloprotease Mep1p cleaves host complement proteins

Innate immunity in animals including humans encompasses the complement system, which is considered an important host defense mechanism against Aspergillus fumigatus, one of the most ubiquitous opportunistic human fungal pathogens. Previously, it has been shown that the alkaline protease Alp1p secreted from A. fumigatus mycelia degrades the complement components C3, C4, and C5. However, it remains unclear how the fungal spores (i.e. conidia) defend themselves against the activities of the complement system immediately after inhalation into the lung. Here, we show that A. fumigatus conidia contain a metalloprotease Mep1p, which is released upon conidial contact with collagen and inactivates all three complement pathways. In particular, Mep1p efficiently inactivated the major complement components C3, C4, and C5 and their activation products (C3a, C4a, and C5a) as well as the pattern-recognition molecules MBL and ficolin-1, either by directly cleaving them or by cleaving them to a form that is further broken down by other proteases of the complement system. Moreover, incubation of Mep1p with human serum significantly inhibited the complement hemolytic activity and conidial opsonization by C3b and their subsequent phagocytosis by macrophages. Together, these results indicate that Mep1p associated with and released from A. fumigatus conidia likely facilitates early immune evasion by disarming the complement defense in the human host.

Native State of Complement Protein C3d Analysed via Hydrogen Exchange and Conformational Sampling

Hydrogen/deuterium exchange detected by mass spectrometry (HDXMS) provides valuable information on protein structure and dynamics. Although HDX-MS data is often interpreted using crystal structures, it was suggested that conformational ensembles produced by molecular dynamics simulations yield more accurate interpretations. In this paper, we analyse the complement protein C3d by performing an HDX-MS experiment, and evaluate several interpretation methodologies using an existing prediction model to derive HDX-MS data from protein structure. To interpret and refine C3d's HDX-MS data, we look for a conformation (or conformational ensemble) of C3d that allows computationally replicating this data. We confirm that crystal structures are not a good choice and suggest that conformational ensembles produced by molecular dynamics simulations might not always be satisfactory either. Finally, we show that coarse-grained conformational sampling of C3d produces a conformation from which its HDX-MS data can be replicated and refined.

Crystal structure of a tripartite complex between C3dg, C-terminal domains of factor H and OspE of Borrelia burgdorferi

Complement is an important part of innate immunity. The alternative pathway of complement is activated when the main opsonin, C3b coats non-protected surfaces leading to opsonisation, phagocytosis and cell lysis. The alternative pathway is tightly controlled to prevent autoactivation towards host cells. The main regulator of the alternative pathway is factor H (FH), a soluble glycoprotein that terminates complement activation in multiple ways. FH recognizes host cell surfaces via domains 19-20 (FH19-20). All microbes including Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme borreliosis, must evade complement activation to allow the infectious agent to survive in its host. One major mechanism that Borrelia uses is to recruit FH from host. Several outer surface proteins (Osp) have been described to bind FH via the C-terminus, and OspE is one of them. Here we report the structure of the tripartite complex formed by OspE, FH19-20 and C3dg at 3.18 Å, showing that OspE and C3dg can bind simultaneously to FH19-20. This verifies that FH19-20 interacts via the "common microbial binding site" on domain 20 with OspE and simultaneously and independently via domain 19 with C3dg. The spatial organization of the tripartite complex explains how OspE on the bacterial surface binds FH19-20, leaving FH fully available to protect the bacteria against complement. Additionally, formation of tripartite complex between FH, microbial protein and C3dg might enable enhanced protection, particularly on those regions on the bacteria where previous complement activation led to deposition of C3d. This might be especially important for slow-growing bacteria that cause chronic disease like Borrelia burgdorferi.

Non-Invasive whole-body detection of complement activation using radionuclide imaging in a mouse model of myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion injury

Complement activation is a recognised mediator of myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion-injury (IRI) and cardiomyocytes are a known source of complement proteins including the central component C3, whose activation products can mediate tissue inflammation, cell death and profibrotic signalling. We investigated the potential to detect and quantify the stable covalently bound product C3d by external body imaging, as a marker of complement activation in heart muscle in a murine model of myocardial IRI. We used single-photon-emission-computed-tomography (SPECT) in conjunction with ^99mTechnecium-labelled recombinant complement receptor 2 (^99mTc-rCR2), which specifically detects C3d at the site of complement activation. Compared to control imaging with an inactive CR2 mutant (^99mTc-K41E CR2) or an irrelevant protein (^99mTc-PSMA) or using ^99mTc-rCR2 in C3-deficient mice, the use of ^99mTc-rCR2 in complement-intact mice gave specific uptake in the reperfused myocardium. The heart to skeletal muscle ratio of ^99mTc-rCR2 was significantly higher than in the three control groups. Histological analysis confirmed specific uptake of ^99mTc-rCR2. Following therapeutic inhibition of complement C3 activation, we found reduced myocardial uptake of ^99mTc-rCR2. We conclude, therefore that ^99mTc-rCR2 imaging can be used for non-invasive detection of activated complement and in future could be exploited to quantify the severity of myocardial damage due to complement activation.

Novel mechanisms and functions of complement

Progress at the beginning of the 21st century transformed the perception of complement from that of a blood-based antimicrobial system to that of a global regulator of immunity and tissue homeostasis. More recent years have witnessed remarkable advances in structure-function insights and understanding of the mechanisms and locations of complement activation, which have added new layers of complexity to the biology of complement. This complexity is readily reflected by the multifaceted and contextual involvement of complement-driven networks in a wide range of inflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders and cancer. This Review provides an updated view of new and previously unanticipated functions of complement and how these affect immunity and disease pathogenesis.

Production of complement components by cells of the immune system

The complement system is an important part of the innate immune defence. It contributes not only to local inflammation, removal and killing of pathogens, but it also assists in shaping of the adaptive immune response. Besides a role in inflammation, complement is also involved in physiological processes such as waste disposal and developmental programmes. The complement system comprises several soluble and membrane-bound proteins. The bulk of the soluble proteins is produced mainly by the liver. While several complement proteins are produced by a wide variety of cell types, other complement proteins are produced by only a few related cell types. As these data suggest that local production by specific cell types may have specific functions, more detailed studies have been employed recently analysing the local and even intracellular role of these complement proteins. Here we review the current knowledge about extrahepatic production and/or secretion of complement components. More specifically, we address what is known about complement synthesis by cells of the human immune system.

Identification of C3b-Binding Small-Molecule Complement Inhibitors Using Cheminformatics

The complement system is an elegantly regulated biochemical cascade formed by the collective molecular recognition properties and proteolytic activities of more than two dozen membrane-bound or serum proteins. Complement plays diverse roles in human physiology, such as acting as a sentry against invading microorganisms, priming of the adaptive immune response, and removal of immune complexes. However, dysregulation of complement can serve as a trigger for a wide range of human diseases, which include autoimmune, inflammatory, and degenerative conditions. Despite several potential advantages of modulating complement with small-molecule inhibitors, small-molecule drugs are highly underrepresented in the current complement-directed therapeutics pipeline. In this study, we have employed a cheminformatics drug discovery approach based on the extensive structural and functional knowledge available for the central proteolytic fragment of the cascade, C3b. Using parallel in silico screening methodologies, we identified 45 small molecules that putatively bind C3b near ligand-guided functional hot spots. Surface plasmon resonance experiments resulted in the validation of seven dose-dependent C3b-binding compounds. Competition-based biochemical assays demonstrated the ability of several C3b-binding compounds to interfere with binding of the original C3b ligand that guided their discovery. In vitro assays of complement function identified a single complement inhibitory compound, termed cmp-5, and mechanistic studies of the cmp-5 inhibitory mode revealed it acts at the level of C5 activation. This study has led to the identification of a promising new class of C3b-binding small-molecule complement inhibitors and, to our knowledge, provides the first demonstration of cheminformatics-based, complement-directed drug discovery.

Structural Implications for the Formation and Function of the Complement Effector Protein iC3b

Complement-mediated opsonization, phagocytosis, and immune stimulation are critical processes in host defense and homeostasis, with the complement activation fragment iC3b playing a key effector role. To date, however, there is no high-resolution structure of iC3b, and some aspects of its structure-activity profile remain controversial. Here, we employed hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry to describe the structure and dynamics of iC3b at a peptide resolution level in direct comparison with its parent protein C3b. In our hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry study, 264 peptides were analyzed for their deuterium content, providing almost complete sequence coverage for this 173-kDa protein. Several peptides in iC3b showed significantly higher deuterium uptake when compared with C3b, revealing more dynamic, solvent-exposed regions. Most of them resided in the CUB domain, which contains the heptadecapeptide C3f that is liberated during the conversion of C3b to iC3b. Our data suggest a highly disordered CUB, which has acquired a state similar to that of intrinsically disordered proteins, resulting in a predominant form of iC3b that features high structural flexibility. The structure was further validated using an anti-iC3b mAb that was shown to target an epitope in the CUB region. The information obtained in this work allows us to elucidate determinants of iC3b specificity and activity and provide functional insights into the protein's recognition pattern with respect to regulators and receptors of the complement system.

Complement in basic processes of the cell

The complement system is reemerging in the last few years not only as key element of innate immunity against pathogens, but also as a main regulator of local adaptive responses, affecting dendritic cells as well as T and B lymphocytes. We review data showing that leucocytes are capable of significant autocrine synthesis of complement proteins, and express a large range of complement receptors, which in turn regulate their differentiation and effector functions while cross talking with other innate receptors such as Toll-like receptors. Other unconventional roles of complement proteins are reviewed, including their impact in non-leukocytes and their intracellular cleavage by vesicular proteases, which generate critical cues required for T cell function. Thus, leucocytes are very much aware of complement-derived information, both extracellular and intracellular, to elaborate their responses, offering rich avenues for therapeutic intervention and new hypothesis for conserved major histocompatibility complex complotypes.

Mapping the Complement Factor H-Related Protein 1 (CFHR1):C3b/C3d Interactions

Complement factor H-related protein 1 (CFHR1) is a complement regulator which has been reported to regulate complement by blocking C5 convertase activity and interfering with C5b surface association. CFHR1 also competes with complement factor H (CFH) for binding to C3b, and may act as an antagonist of CFH-directed regulation on cell surfaces. We have employed site-directed mutagenesis in conjunction with ELISA-based and functional assays to isolate the binding interaction that CFHR1 undertakes with complement components C3b and C3d to a single shared interface. The C3b/C3d:CFHR1 interface is identical to that which occurs between the two C-terminal domains (SCR19-20) of CFH and C3b. Moreover, we have been able to corroborate that dimerization of CFHR1 is necessary for this molecule to bind effectively to C3b and C3d, or compete with CFH. Finally, we have established that CFHR1 competes with complement factor H-like protein 1 (CFHL-1) for binding to C3b. CFHL-1 is a CFH gene splice variant, which is almost identical to the N-terminal 7 domains of CFH (SCR1-7). CFHR1, therefore, not only competes with the C-terminus of CFH for binding to C3b, but also sterically blocks the interaction that the N-terminus of CFH undertakes with C3b, and which is required for CFH-regulation.

Interaction of Staphylococci with Human B cells

Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of human infections worldwide. The pathogen produces numerous molecules that can interfere with recognition and binding by host innate immune cells, an initial step required for the ingestion and subsequent destruction of microbes by phagocytes. To better understand the interaction of this pathogen with human immune cells, we compared the association of S. aureus and S. epidermidis with leukocytes in human blood. We found that a significantly greater proportion of B cells associated with S. epidermidis relative to S. aureus. Complement components and complement receptors were important for the binding of B cells with S. epidermidis. Experiments using staphylococci inactivated by ultraviolet radiation and S. aureus isogenic deletion mutants indicated that S. aureus secretes molecules regulated by the SaeR/S two-component system that interfere with the ability of human B cells to bind this bacterium. We hypothesize that the relative inability of B cells to bind S. aureus contributes to the microbe’s success as a human pathogen.

Identifying and Visualizing Macromolecular Flexibility in Structural Biology

Structural biology comprises a variety of tools to obtain atomic resolution data for the investigation of macromolecules. Conventional structural methodologies including crystallography, NMR and electron microscopy often do not provide sufficient details concerning flexibility and dynamics, even though these aspects are critical for the physiological functions of the systems under investigation. However, the increasing complexity of the molecules studied by structural biology (including large macromolecular assemblies, integral membrane proteins, intrinsically disordered systems, and folding intermediates) continuously demands in-depth analyses of the roles of flexibility and conformational specificity involved in interactions with ligands and inhibitors. The intrinsic difficulties in capturing often subtle but critical molecular motions in biological systems have restrained the investigation of flexible molecules into a small niche of structural biology. Introduction of massive technological developments over the recent years, which include time-resolved studies, solution X-ray scattering, and new detectors for cryo-electron microscopy, have pushed the limits of structural investigation of flexible systems far beyond traditional approaches of NMR analysis. By integrating these modern methods with powerful biophysical and computational approaches such as generation of ensembles of molecular models and selective particle picking in electron microscopy, more feasible investigations of dynamic systems are now possible. Using some prominent examples from recent literature, we review how current structural biology methods can contribute useful data to accurately visualize flexibility in macromolecular structures and understand its important roles in regulation of biological processes.

Electrostatic Steering Accelerates C3d:CR2 Association

Electrostatic effects are ubiquitous in protein interactions and are found to be pervasive in the complement system as well. The interaction between complement fragment C3d and complement receptor 2 (CR2) has evolved to become a link between innate and adaptive immunity. Electrostatic interactions have been suggested to be the driving factor for the association of the C3d:CR2 complex. In this study, we investigate the effects of ionic strength and mutagenesis on the association of C3d:CR2 through Brownian dynamics simulations. We demonstrate that the formation of the C3d:CR2 complex is ionic strength-dependent, suggesting the presence of long-range electrostatic steering that accelerates the complex formation. Electrostatic steering occurs through the interaction of an acidic surface patch in C3d and the positively charged CR2 and is supported by the effects of mutations within the acidic patch of C3d that slow or diminish association. Our data are in agreement with previous experimental mutagenesis and binding studies and computational studies. Although the C3d acidic patch may be locally destabilizing because of unfavorable Coulombic interactions of like charges, it contributes to the acceleration of association. Therefore, acceleration of function through electrostatic steering takes precedence to stability. The site of interaction between C3d and CR2 has been the target for delivery of CR2-bound nanoparticle, antibody, and small molecule biomarkers, as well as potential therapeutics. A detailed knowledge of the physicochemical basis of C3d:CR2 association may be necessary to accelerate biomarker and drug discovery efforts.

Selectivity of C3-opsonin targeted complement inhibitors: A distinct advantage in the protection of erythrocytes from paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria patients

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is characterized by complement-mediated cell lysis due to deficiency of GPI-anchored complement regulators. Blockage of the lytic pathway by eculizumab is the only available therapy for PNH patients and shows remarkable benefits, but regularly yields PNH erythrocytes opsonized with fragments of complement protein C3, rendering such erythrocytes prone to extravascular hemolysis. This effect is associated with insufficient responsiveness seen in a subgroup of PNH patients. Novel C3-opsonin targeted complement inhibitors act earlier in the cascade, at the level of activated C3 and are engineered from parts of the natural complement regulator Factor H (FH) or complement receptor 2 (CR2). This inhibitor class comprises three variants of "miniFH" and the clinically developed "FH-CR2" fusion-protein (TT30). We show that the approach of FH-CR2 to target C3-opsonins was more efficient in preventing complement activation induced by foreign surfaces, whereas the miniFH variants were substantially more active in controlling complement on PNH erythrocytes. Subtle differences were noted in the ability of each version of miniFH to protect human PNH cells. Importantly, miniFH and FH-CR2 interfered only minimally with complement-mediated serum killing of bacteria when compared to untargeted inhibition of all complement pathways by eculizumab. Thus, the molecular design of each C3-opsonin targeted complement inhibitor determines its potency in respect to the nature of the activator/surface providing potential functionality in PNH.

Complement activation, regulation, and molecular basis for complement-related diseases

The complement system is an essential element of the innate immune response that becomes activated upon recognition of molecular patterns associated with microorganisms, abnormal host cells, and modified molecules in the extracellular environment. The resulting proteolytic cascade tags the complement activator for elimination and elicits a pro-inflammatory response leading to recruitment and activation of immune cells from both the innate and adaptive branches of the immune system. Through these activities, complement functions in the first line of defense against pathogens but also contributes significantly to the maintenance of homeostasis and prevention of autoimmunity. Activation of complement and the subsequent biological responses occur primarily in the extracellular environment. However, recent studies have demonstrated autocrine signaling by complement activation in intracellular vesicles, while the presence of a cytoplasmic receptor serves to detect complement-opsonized intracellular pathogens. Furthermore, breakthroughs in both functional and structural studies now make it possible to describe many of the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying complement activation and the subsequent downstream events, as well as its cross talk with, for example, signaling pathways, the coagulation system, and adaptive immunity. We present an integrated and updated view of complement based on structural and functional data and describe the new roles attributed to complement. Finally, we discuss how the structural and mechanistic understanding of the complement system rationalizes the genetic defects conferring uncontrolled activation or other undesirable effects of complement.

Antigen archiving by lymph node stroma: A novel function for the lymphatic endothelium

Secondary lymphoid stroma performs far more functions than simple structural support for lymphoid tissues, providing a host of soluble and membrane-bound cues to trafficking leukocytes during inflammation and homeostasis. More recently it has become clear that stromal cells can manipulate T-cell responses, either through direct antigen-mediated stimulation of T cells or more indirectly through the retention and management of antigen after viral infection or vaccination. In light of recent data, this review provides an overview of stromal cell subsets and functions during the progression of an adaptive immune response with particular emphasis on antigen capture and retention by follicular dendritic cells as well as the recently described "antigen archiving" function of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs). Given its impact on the maintenance of protective immune memory, we conclude by discussing the most pressing questions pertaining to LEC antigen capture, archiving and exchange with hematopoetically derived antigen-presenting cells.

Noninvasive Imaging of Activated Complement in Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury Post-Cardiac Transplant

Ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is inevitable in solid organ transplantation, due to the transplanted organ being ischemic for prolonged periods prior to transplantation followed by reperfusion. The complement molecule C3 is present in the circulation and is also synthesized by tissue parenchyma in early response to IRI and the final stable fragment of activated C3, C3d, can be detected on injured tissue for several days post-IRI. Complement activation post-IRI was monitored noninvasively by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and CT using (99m) Tc-recombinant complement receptor 2 ((99m) Tc-rCR2) in murine models of cardiac transplantation following the induction of IRI and compared to (99m) Tc-rCR2 in C3(-/-) mice or with the irrelevant protein (99m) Tc-prostate-specific membrane antigen antibody fragment (PSMA). Significant uptake with (99m) Tc-rCR2 was observed as compared to C3(-/-) or (99m) Tc-PSMA. In addition, the transplanted heart to muscle ratio of (99m) Tc-rCR2 was significantly higher than (99m) Tc-PSMA or C3(-/-) . The results were confirmed by histology and autoradiography. (99m) Tc-rCR2 can be used for noninvasive detection of activated complement and in future may be used to quantify the severity of transplant damage due to complement activation postreperfusion.

Non-invasive imaging to monitor lupus nephritis and neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can affect multiple different organs, including the kidneys and central nervous system (CNS). Conventional radiological examinations in SLE patients include volumetric/ anatomical computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (US). The utility of these modalities is limited, however, due to the complexity of the disease. Furthermore, standard CT and MRI contrast agents are contraindicated in patients with renal impairment. Various radiologic methods are currently being developed to improve disease characterization in patients with SLE beyond simple anatomical endpoints. Physiological non-contrast MRI protocols have been developed to assess tissue oxygenation, glomerular filtration, renal perfusion, interstitial diffusion, and inflammation-driven fibrosis in lupus nephritis (LN) patients. For neurological symptoms, vessel size imaging (VSI, an MRI approach utilizing T2-relaxing iron oxide nanoparticles) has shown promise as a diagnostic tool. Molecular imaging probes (mostly for MRI and nuclear medicine imaging) have also been developed for diagnosing SLE with high sensitivity, and for monitoring disease activity. This paper reviews the challenges in evaluating disease activity in patients with LN and neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE). We describe novel MRI and positron-emission tomography (PET) molecular imaging protocols using targeted iron oxide nanoparticles and radioactive ligands, respectively, for detection of SLE-associated inflammation.

Role of complement and complement regulatory proteins in the complications of diabetes

It is well established that the organ damage that complicates human diabetes is caused by prolonged hyperglycemia, but the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which high levels of glucose cause tissue damage in humans are still not fully understood. The prevalent hypothesis explaining the mechanisms that may underlie the pathogenesis of diabetes complications includes overproduction of reactive oxygen species, increased flux through the polyol pathway, overactivity of the hexosamine pathway causing intracellular formation of advanced glycation end products, and activation of protein kinase C isoforms. In addition, experimental and clinical evidence reported in past decades supports a strong link between the complement system, complement regulatory proteins, and the pathogenesis of diabetes complications. In this article, we summarize the body of evidence that supports a role for the complement system and complement regulatory proteins in the pathogenesis of diabetic vascular complications, with specific emphasis on the role of the membrane attack complex (MAC) and of CD59, an extracellular cell membrane-anchored inhibitor of MAC formation that is inactivated by nonenzymatic glycation. We discuss a pathogenic model of human diabetic complications in which a combination of CD59 inactivation by glycation and hyperglycemia-induced complement activation increases MAC deposition, activates pathways of intracellular signaling, and induces the release of proinflammatory, prothrombotic cytokines and growth factors. Combined, complement-dependent and complement-independent mechanisms induced by high glucose promote inflammation, proliferation, and thrombosis as characteristically seen in the target organs of diabetes complications.

Energetic evaluation of binding modes in the C3d and Factor H (CCP 19-20) complex

As a part of innate immunity, the complement system relies on activation of the alternative pathway (AP). While feed-forward amplification generates an immune response towards foreign surfaces, the process requires regulation to prevent an immune response on the surface of host cells. Factor H (FH) is a complement protein secreted by native cells to negatively regulate the AP. In terms of structure, FH is composed of 20 complement-control protein (CCP) modules that are structurally homologous but vary in composition and function. Mutations in these CCPs have been linked to states of autoimmunity. In particular, several mutations in CCP 19-20 are correlated to atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS). From crystallographic structures there are three putative binding sites of CCP 19-20 on C3d. Since there has been some controversy over the primary mode of binding from experimental studies, we approach characterization of binding using computational methods. Specifically, we compare each binding mode in terms of electrostatic character, structural stability, dissociative and associative properties, and predicted free energy of binding. After a detailed investigation, we found two of the three binding sites to be similarly stable while varying in the number of contacts to C3d and in the energetic barrier to complex dissociation. These sites are likely physiologically relevant and may facilitate multivalent binding of FH CCP 19-20 to C3b and either C3d or host glycosaminoglycans. We propose thermodynamically stable binding with modules 19 and 20, the latter driven by electrostatics, acting synergistically to increase the apparent affinity of FH for host surfaces.

A theoretical view of the C3d:CR2 binding controversy

The C3d:CR2(SCR1-2) interaction plays an important role in bridging innate and adaptive immunity, leading to enhanced antibody production at sites of complement activation. Over the past decade, there has been much debate over the binding mode of this interaction. An initial cocrystal structure (PDB: 1GHQ) was published in 2001, in which the only interactions observed were between the SCR2 domain of CR2 and a side-face of C3d whereas a cocrystal structure (PDB: 3OED) published in 2011 showed both the SCR1 and SCR2 domains of CR2 interacting with an acidic patch on the concave surface of C3d. The initial 1GHQ structure is at odds with the majority of existing biochemical data and the publication of the 3OED structure renewed uncertainty regarding the physiological relevance of 1GHQ, suggesting that crystallization may have been influenced by the presence of zinc acetate in the crystallization process. In our study, we used a variety of computational approaches to gain insight into the binding mode between C3d and CR2 and demonstrate that the binding site at the acidic patch (3OED) is electrostatically more favorable, exhibits better structural and dissociative stability, specifically at the SCR1 domain, and has higher binding affinity than the 1GHQ binding mode. We also observe that nonphysiological zinc ions enhance the formation of the C3d:CR2 complex at the side face of C3d (1GHQ) through increases in electrostatic favorability, intermolecular interactions, dissociative character and overall energetic favorability. These results provide a theoretical basis for the association of C3d:CR2 at the acidic cavity of C3d and provide an explanation for binding of CR2 at the side face of C3d in the presence of nonphysiological zinc ions.