Soluble Mediators of the Immune System

This set of flashcards covers essential vocabulary from the notes on the complement system and its roles in the immune response.

Complement System

A system of proteins that enhances the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens from an organism.

Classic pathway

One of the complement activation pathways initiated by immune complexes that trigger the complement cascade.

Alternate pathway

A complement activation pathway that does not involve antibodies, initiated by the presence of pathogens.

Mannose-Binding Lectin Pathway

A pathway of complement activation initiated by the binding of mannose-binding lectin to mannose on pathogens.

Membrane Attack Complex (MAC)

A structure formed by the complement proteins that creates pores in the cell membranes of pathogens, leading to cell lysis.

C3 convertase

An enzyme complex that plays a pivotal role in the complement system, responsible for cleaving C3 into C3a and C3b.

Opsonization

The process by which pathogens are marked for destruction by phagocytes through the binding of opsonins.

Anaphylatoxins

Small peptide fragments generated during complement activation that mediate inflammation and attract immune cells.

Complement deficiency

A condition that results from the lack of one or more complement proteins, leading to increased susceptibility to infections.

Testing for complement deficiency

Evaluation methods to assess the functional activity of complement pathways in patients suspected of having complement deficiencies.