Factor H, also known as beta-1H, is a serum glycoprotein that controls the function of the alternative complement pathway and acts as a cofactor with factor I. It regulates the activity of the C3 convertases such as C4b2a. Factor H is synthesized in hepatocytes, macrophages, B cells, endothelial cells, and platelets. Deficiency of factor H leads to uncontrolled activation of the alternative pathway and C3 consumption. Levels of C3 are reduced, and total hemolytic complement activity and alternative pathway complement activity are usually reduced.
Alternative names
Complement factor H deficiency
Classification
- Defects of the alternative complement pathway
Inheritance
Autosomal recessive
OMIM
+134370 H factor 1; HF1
Cross references
Phenotypically related immunodeficiencies
Incidence
Incidence is not known.