The role of locally synthesized complement proteins in modulation of immune responses is a topic that has not been addressed previously but is now gaining momentum very rapidly. Although the majority of circulating complement proteins—with the exception of C1q— is synthesized in the liver, extrahepatic synthesis of individual or multiple proteins does occur especially by cells that are far removed from circulation. Furthermore, even cells such as peripheral monocytes that were presumed incapable of synthesizing complement proteins unless they were activated are proving us wrong. These locally synthesized proteins in turn, have been shown to induce cellular responses through interaction with receptors in an autocrine signaling mechanism. Nevertheless, the specific role these proteins play— be it pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory—tissue damage or tissue repair; remains largely unexplored. This “Research Topic" is therefore meant to encourage investigators in the field to contribute articles pertaining to the synthesis and function of locally produced complement proteins in innate and adaptive immunity.
The role of locally synthesized complement proteins in modulation of immune responses is a topic that has not been addressed previously but is now gaining momentum very rapidly. Although the majority of circulating complement proteins—with the exception of C1q— is synthesized in the liver, extrahepatic synthesis of individual or multiple proteins does occur especially by cells that are far removed from circulation. Furthermore, even cells such as peripheral monocytes that were presumed incapable of synthesizing complement proteins unless they were activated are proving us wrong. These locally synthesized proteins in turn, have been shown to induce cellular responses through interaction with receptors in an autocrine signaling mechanism. Nevertheless, the specific role these proteins play— be it pro-inflammatory or anti-inflammatory—tissue damage or tissue repair; remains largely unexplored. This “Research Topic" is therefore meant to encourage investigators in the field to contribute articles pertaining to the synthesis and function of locally produced complement proteins in innate and adaptive immunity.