Abstract
Background/Aims: We examined the effect of human complement sera (HCS) on retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells with respect to pro-inflammatory mediators relevant in early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods: RPE cells were treated with complement-containing HCS or with heat-inactivated (HI) HCS or C7-deficient HCS as controls. Cells were analysed for C5b-9 using immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry. Interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) were quantified by ELISA and RT-PCR. Tumour necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), were analysed by Western blotting. The intracellular distribution of nuclear factor (NF)-κB was investigated by immunofluorescence. Results: A concentration-dependent increased staining for C5b-9 but no influence on cell viability was observed after HCS treatment. ELISA and RT-PCR analysis revealed elevated secretion and expression of IL-6, IL-8, and MCP-1. Western blot analysis showed a concentration-dependent increase in ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and TNF-a in response to HCS, and immunofluorescence staining revealed nuclear translocation of NF-κB. Conclusion: This study suggests that complement stimulates NF-κB activation in RPE cells that might further create a pro-inflammatory environment. All these factors together may support early AMD development.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
