Mannose-binding lectin as part of the complement pathway: Characterization in non-inflamed and inflamed human eyes

Abstract

Background: Mannose-binding lectin plays a central effector role in the lectin pathway of complement activation. Frequently occurring MBL2 polymorphisms result in mannose-binding lectin deficiency, which increases susceptibility to infection. We characterized mannose-binding lectin levels and function in non-inflamed and inflamed human eyes, and evaluated its relationship to blood mannose-binding lectin levels and function. Design: Prospective, observational clinical study with controls and cases. Participants: Twenty-seven patients with paired blood and ocular samples (aqueous and/or vitreous) including 15 controls (non-inflamed) and 12 cases (inflamed). Methods: Blood and ocular samples we..