Sistema de complemento

What is the complement system?

The complement system is a group of proteins that enhance the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens from an organism.

What are the three pathways of the complement system?

The classical pathway, the alternative pathway, and the lectin pathway.

What activates the classical pathway?

The classical pathway is activated by the binding of antibodies to a pathogen.

What role does C3 play in the complement system?

C3 is a central component that gets cleaved into C3a and C3b, facilitating opsonization and inflammation.

What is opsonization?

Opsonization is the process by which pathogens are marked for destruction by phagocytes.

What are anaphylatoxins?

Anaphylatoxins, such as C3a and C5a, are fragments that promote inflammation and recruit immune cells.

What is the membrane attack complex (MAC)?

The MAC is a structure formed on the surface of pathogens that leads to cell lysis.

How does the alternative pathway differ from the classical pathway?

The alternative pathway can be initiated without the presence of antibodies, typically by pathogen surfaces.

What is the function of C5 convertase?

C5 convertase cleaves C5 into C5a and C5b, contributing to inflammation and the formation of the MAC.

What is the role of complement regulatory proteins?

Complement regulatory proteins help to prevent excessive complement activation and protect host tissues.