6 Questions
What is the lectin pathway initiated by?
Lectins binding to specific carbohydrate patterns on pathogens
What is the role of C5a in complement activation?
It induces inflammation and activates immune cells
What is the membrane attack complex (MAC) composed of?
C5b, C6, C7, C8, and C9
Which pathway can be spontaneously activated in the absence of antibodies?
Alternative pathway
What is the role of C3b in complement activation?
It enhances phagocytosis
What is the function of the membrane attack complex (MAC)?
It leads to pathogen destruction
Study Notes
Complement Activation
- The lectin pathway is initiated by the binding of lectins to carbohydrate molecules on microbial surfaces.
Complement Activation Proteins
- C5a plays a role in complement activation by attracting and activating phagocytic cells.
Membrane Attack Complex (MAC)
- The membrane attack complex (MAC) is composed of C5b, C6, C7, C8, and C9 proteins that assemble together to form a membrane-spanning pore.
Alternative Pathway
- The alternative pathway can be spontaneously activated in the absence of antibodies through the continuous low-level hydrolysis of C3.
C3b Role
- C3b plays a role in complement activation by serving as an opsonin, enhancing phagocytosis, and amplifying the complement response.
Membrane Attack Complex (MAC) Function
- The membrane attack complex (MAC) functions by forming a membrane-spanning pore in the target cell, leading to osmotic lysis and cell death.
Take our quiz on complement activation pathways to test your knowledge on the three different pathways: classical, alternative, and lectin. Learn how each pathway is triggered and the role of antibodies and lectins in activation. Put your knowledge to the test and challenge yourself with our quiz!
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