MLT 115 Les 2 pt 2: BRMs and Complements

What do increased complement levels (specifically C3 and C4) generally indicate?

They are considered acute phase reactants that often rise in response to inflammation.

What is the primary indicator of decreased complement levels?

A missing component, which is frequently a genetic deficiency of C2.

Which specific infection are individuals with decreased complement levels most susceptible to?

Neisseria gonorrhea.

What are the clinical consequences of a C2 deficiency?

Heightened vulnerability to Gonorrhea and Streptococcal infections due to the inability to opsonize bacteria, leading to a loss of lytic activity and phagocytosis.

How are Biological Response Modifiers (BRMs) defined?

Substances that assist the immune system by acting as reinforcements.

What is the primary function of B cells?

To produce antibodies.

What are the roles of Interleukins and Colony Stimulating Factors as immune substances?

Interleukins facilitate cell-to-cell communication, while Colony Stimulating Factors trigger the production of neutrophils or monocytes based on immune needs.

What is the significance of Interferon in the immune response?

It is critical for antiviral defense and was historically the primary treatment for hepatitis C.

What is the role of Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF)?

It serves as a natural defense against tumors, although it is often insufficient to control tumor size alone.

What do Natural Killer Cells produce to combat infections?

Interferon alpha (IFN-\alpha).

Which cells contribute to the immune response by producing multiple cytokines like TNF and interleukins?

Monocytes and Macrophages.