The complement system, also known as complement cascade, is a part of the immune system that enhances (complements) the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear microbes and damaged cells from an organism, promote inflammation, and attack the pathogen’s cell membrane. It is part of the innate immune system and consists of approximately 50 proteins and protein fragments that are predominantly synthesized by the liver, and circulate in the blood. When activated by one of several triggers, the complement system works in conjunction with other components of the immune system to clear foreign and damaged material such as invading pathogens (bacteria and viruses).

Dysregulation of the complement system is implicated in the development of a number of diseases including age-related macular degeneration, kidney disease and various hematological conditions. As our understanding of the complement cascade progresses, it is apparent that complement plays a pivotal role in disease, with new insights creating the opportunities for identifying and developing new therapeutic strategies.

Based on pioneering research of the founders (Prof Simon Clark, Prof Paul Bishop and Dr Richard Unwin), Complement Therapeutics aims to develop innovative and effective therapeutics to address unmet needs in complement mediated diseases.