Biological Consequences of Complement Activation

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Questions and Answers

What is one biological consequence of complement activation that enhances phagocytosis?

  • C5a
  • C3b (correct)
  • C5,6,7 complex
  • C1q (correct)

Which complement component is primarily responsible for chemotaxis and attracting neutrophils?

  • C5a (correct)
  • C1q
  • MAC
  • C3b

What effect does the complement system have on antibody production?

  • Reduces the affinity of antibodies for antigens
  • Enhances antibody production by B cells (correct)
  • Inhibits antibody production in B cells
  • Has no effect on antibody production

Which condition is NOT associated with disorders of the complement system?

<p>Rheumatoid Arthritis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary effect of the Membrane Attack Complex (MAC) in complement activation?

<p>Creates pores in the cell membrane (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

Biological Consequences of Complement Activation

  • Opsonization: C3b and C1q enhance phagocytosis by marking pathogens for destruction by immune cells.
  • Chemotaxis: C5a and the C5,6,7 complex attract neutrophils to the site of infection.
  • C5a: Enhances the adhesiveness of neutrophils to the endothelium, allowing them to migrate to the infected area.
  • Lysis (Membrane Attack Complex - MAC): Creates pores in the membrane of pathogens, disrupting their integrity.
    • May have a limited effect on gram-positive organisms due to their thick cell wall.
  • Enhancement of Antibody Production: C3b binding to its receptor on B cells enhances antibody production, increasing the immune response.
  • Clearance of Immune Complexes: The complement system helps remove immune complexes from circulation, depositing them in the liver and spleen for processing.

Disorders of the Complement System

  • Autoimmune Diseases:
    • Lupus erythematosus: Characterized by inflammation and tissue damage in affected organs due to dysregulation of the complement system.
  • Hereditary Angioedema: Caused by a deficiency in C1 inhibitor, resulting in increased capillary permeability and edema in various organs.
  • Other Conditions:
    • Asthma
    • Schizophrenia
    • Alzheimer’s Disease
    • Multiple Sclerosis: A condition affecting the brain and spinal cord, potentially causing neurological dysfunction.

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