The C4b-binding protein-protein S complex inhibits the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells.
The phagocytosis of apoptotic cells is a complex process involving numerous interactions between the target cell and the macrophage. We have examined a role of the major soluble inhibitor of the classic and lectin complement pathways, C4b-binding protein (C4BP), in the clearance of apoptotic cells. The major form of C4BP present in blood is composed of seven alpha-chains and one beta-chain, which