Complement Factor H Displays Opposite Expression Patterns Under Two Situations of Methamphetamine Ad
Methamphetamine (METH) is a highly addictive central nervous system stimulant that has severe physical and psychological side-effects, including loss of appetite, hyperactivity,dysphoria, and depression. Due to its illegal production, distribution, sale, and possession it has become a worldwide burden. METH is directly toxic to dopaminergic and serotoninergic neurons, resulting in excitotoxicity, oxidative stress,and other processes . Research on biomolecules associated with these processes will be useful for identifying potential markers, exploring the mechanism ofMETH dependence, and even developing prevention and treatment strategies.
Complement factor H (CFH) is one of these potential METH-dependence-related molecules; it is a 155-kDa glycoprotein comprised of 20 contiguous complement control protein modules. It can be secreted by several types of cells, including monocytes, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, platelets, and retinal pigment epithelial cells, but it is mainly secreted by the liver. CFH is the major soluble regulator of the complement alternative pathway due to its ability to recognize related biomolecules to inhibit the activation and amplification of the complement system on host surfaces. Mutations of CFH can lead to autoimmune inflammatory and thrombotic disorders, such as age-related macular degeneration and atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome.