Systemic Complement Activation in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Author Information
Author(s): Scholl Hendrik P. N., Issa Peter Charbel, Walier Maja, Janzer Stefanie, Pollok-Kopp Beatrix, Börncke Florian, Fritsche Lars G., Chong Ngaihang V., Fimmers Rolf, Wienker Thomas, Holz Frank G., Weber Bernhard H. F., Oppermann Martin
Primary Institution: Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
Hypothesis
Defective control of complement activation underlies age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Conclusion
The study shows that systemic complement activation is significantly elevated in AMD patients compared to controls.
Supporting Evidence
- All complement activation products were significantly elevated in AMD patients compared to controls.
- Markers of chronic complement activation Ba and C3d were particularly elevated in AMD patients.
- Logistic regression analysis showed that a model based on complement activation markers had better discriminative accuracy than one based on genetic markers.
Takeaway
This study found that people with age-related macular degeneration have higher levels of certain proteins in their blood that are linked to inflammation.
Methodology
The study measured plasma concentrations of complement activation products and analyzed genetic markers in AMD patients and controls.
Limitations
The study was limited to genes and proteins of the alternative pathway of complement, and the generalizability of findings may be restricted due to the specific population studied.
Participant Demographics
112 AMD patients and 67 control subjects, matched for age, gender, and smoking habits.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website