Complement activation according to the alternate pathway by glass and plastic surfaces and its role in neutrophil adhesion.

C3-deposition, generated by complement activation according to the alternate pathway, was detected on borosilicate glass slides and polystyrene Petri dishes. The C3-depositions grew peripherally until the entire surface was covered. The deposits were also visualized with scanning electron microscopy and could not be washed away with low-pH (3.5) or high-pH (9.6) buffers. No consumption of complement function was detected indicating a phenomenon restricted to the glass and plastic surfaces. The C3-deposits could mediate an adherence of human neutrophils.