Complement receptors in human peripheral nerve tissue.

Cryostat sections of human peripheral nerve tissue adsorbed sheep erythrocytes sensitized with antibody and human complement (EAC). Activated complement was essential for the reaction to occur. The receptor had specificity for the C3b fragment. In order to obrain binding to nerve tissue, the indicator cells had to be coated with more complement than that required for binding to C3b receptors in spleen and renal tissue. The receptors are located within the nerve fascicles and are probably of glycoprotein nature. The receptors for C3b in peripheral nerve tissus may be of significance in the deposition of immune complexes, which may play a role in acute polyradiculoneuritis.