Complement Protein Aggregates in Age-Related Amyloidosis
While the root cause(s) of aging are unknown, protein aggregates are thought to have harmful effects. During aging, proteins become misfolded, forming aggregates that cause inflammation. Understanding which protein(s) become aggregated holds the promise of new therapies promoting healthy aging. Membrane attack complexes (MACs) are immune proteins long believed to contribute to aging via cell death. We surprisingly found that MAC proteins formed aggregates causing inflammation without cell death. Using innovative molecular tools and genetically-engineered mouse models, Dr. Jane-Wit will test a new concept that MAC aggregates promote age-related inflammation and decline in physiologic function.