Complement C1q A-Chain (C1QA)

C1QA encodes the A-chain of C1q, the recognition subunit of the C1 complex that initiates the classical complement pathway. C1q assembles from six copies each of the A, B and C chains into a bouquet of collagen-like triple helices tipped by globular C1q heads; the A-chain contributes to the heads that bind the Fc regions of antigen-bound IgG and IgM, as well as apoptotic cells, C-reactive protein and other danger patterns. C1q is produced mainly by macrophages, dendritic cells and microglia rather than hepatocytes. Humans lacking C1QA develop severe early-onset lupus erythematosus and recurrent infections, highlighting its role in immune-complex and dead-cell clearance.