Question 2 10 points Save Answer In your own words describe

Question 2 10 points Save Answer In your own words, describe the function of the complement system and how it is activated. What does MAC stand for, what is it, and what does it do? T T T T Paragraph Arial 3(2p) IE Ti

Solution

Complement system

Complement system finds in normal plasma that augments the opsonization of bacteria by antibodies. This then allows antibodies to kill some bacteria. The activity called as complementary action of antibodies to bacteria. The system involves large number of distinct plasma proteins which are mainly proteases. These make inflammatory responses. The system has three pathways; classical, MB-Lectin and Alternate. All pathways have the intermediate component C3 convertase but they have different initiation process. Classical pathway initiates for antigen and antibody interaction. The MB Lectin requires when Mannan binding lectin binds to mannose of pathogen surface. Alternate pathway includes the C3 convertase initiation directly on pathogen surface. After the activation of C3 convertase the further cascade starts which involves activation of C5, C6, C7, C8 and C9 proteins. These proteins form complex over the pathogen surface and make membrane attack complex or MAC. The complex helps to kill the bacteria by swell and burst them.