Targeting properdin - Structure and function of a novel family of tick-derived complement inhibitors

Activation of the serum-resident complement system begins a cascade that leads to activation of membrane-resident complement receptors on immune cells, thus coordinating serum and cellular immune responses. Whilst many molecules act to control inappropriate activation, Properdin is the only known positive regulator of the human complement system. By stabilising the alternative pathway C3 convertase it promotes complement self-amplification and persistent activation boosting the magnitude of the serum complement response by all triggers. We have identified a novel family of alternative pathway complement inhibitors, hereafter termed CirpA. Functional and structural characterisation reveals that CirpA family directly bind to properdin, inhibiting its ability to promote complement activation, and leading to potent inhibition of the complement response in a species specific manner. For the first time this study provides a full functional and structural characterization of a properdin inhibitor, opening avenues for future therapeutic approaches.