Immunology of reproduction: protecting the placenta

Curr Biol. 2000 May 18;10(10):R381-3. doi: 10.1016/s0960-9822(00)00476-0.

Abstract

The propensity of complement to damage self is controlled by expression of regulatory proteins. Recent results demonstrate that deleting just one of these regulators in mice causes complement to attack and destroy the embryo. These findings may have relevance to human pregnancy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Complement Activation
  • Complement System Proteins / immunology*
  • Embryo, Mammalian / immunology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immune Tolerance*
  • Mice
  • Placenta / immunology*
  • Pregnancy
  • Receptors, Complement / physiology*
  • Receptors, Complement 3b

Substances

  • Cr1l protein, mouse
  • Receptors, Complement
  • Receptors, Complement 3b
  • Complement System Proteins