Protective effect of membrane cofactor protein against complement-dependent injury
AbstractAim:To evaluate the protective role of membrane cofactor protein (MCP, CD46) on complement-dependent injury.Methods:MCP was separated by ion exchange chromatography on a DEAE sephadex A-50 column from pig erythrocyte ghosts. Its protective effect was tested in models such as cobra venom factor (CVF)-induced platelet metamorphosis and aggregation, human serum-induced injury in isolated working guinea pig heart and reverse passive Arthus reaction.Results:MCP inhibited CVF-induced platelet metamorphosis with an IC50 of 56.7 mg/L±2.6 mg/L, and prevented injury induced by activated complement in isolated working guinea pig hearts. In the rat model of reverse Arthus reaction, MCP relieved the skin lesions induced by immune complexes.Conclusion:MCP has a protective effect against complement-dependent injury.