complement system Flashcards
What is the primary function of the complement system?
To enhance the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens.
True or False: The complement system is part of the adaptive immune system.
False: It is part of the innate immune system.
Fill in the blank: The complement system consists of a series of ______ that work together to fight infections.
proteins
What are the three main pathways of complement activation?
Classical pathway, alternative pathway, and lectin pathway.
Which complement protein is known as the central component of the complement system?
C3
Multiple choice: Which of the following is a product of complement activation? A) C5a B) IgG C) T cells
A) C5a
What role does C3b play in the complement system?
It acts as an opsonin to promote phagocytosis.
True or False: The alternative pathway is activated by the binding of antibodies to pathogens.
False: It is activated directly on microbial surfaces.
What is the end result of the complement activation cascade?
Formation of the membrane attack complex (MAC).
Fill in the blank: The complement system can lead to the formation of ______, which can lyse pathogens.
pores
Which complement protein is involved in the recruitment of inflammatory cells?
C5a
Multiple choice: Which pathway is initiated by the binding of antibodies to antigens? A) Classical B) Alternative C) Lectin
A) Classical
What is the role of factor B in the alternative pathway?
It is cleaved by factor D to form the C3 convertase.
True or False: The complement system can directly kill pathogens without the involvement of antibodies.
True
What is the function of the lectin pathway?
It is activated by the binding of mannose-binding lectin to carbohydrates on pathogens.
Fill in the blank: The complement system can enhance the ______ response by promoting inflammation.
immune
Which complement component is responsible for forming the membrane attack complex?
C9
Multiple choice: Which of the following is NOT a function of the complement system? A) Opsonization B) Lysis of cells C) Antibody production
C) Antibody production
What is the significance of regulatory proteins in the complement system?
They prevent damage to host cells by controlling complement activation.
True or False: Complement proteins are only produced during an immune response.
False: They are produced continuously by the liver.
Fill in the blank: Complement activation can lead to ______, which helps eliminate immune complexes.
inflammation
What is the relationship between complement and antibodies?
Antibodies can activate the complement system by binding to antigens.
Which complement component is known as an anaphylatoxin?
C3a
Multiple choice: Which complement pathway is most rapidly activated during an infection? A) Classical B) Alternative C) Lectin
B) Alternative