What is C3 glomerulopathy?
What causes C3G?
The complement system is a key part of the body’s innate immune system that acts as part of the first line of defense against infections. It is made up of three pathways: classical, lectin, and alternative complement pathway.8-10 In C3G, the alternative complement pathway becomes dysregulated, which triggers the formation of C3 protein deposits in the kidneys.11-14 This causes inflammation and leads to progressive kidney damage, and eventually loss of kidney function.13,15
There are two major subtypes of C3G: dense deposit disease (DDD) and C3 glomerulonephritis (C3GN). These subtypes differ in the density and location of C3 protein deposits in the kidneys.4,12,16