6.5 Complement Flashcards
1
Q
Define complement
A
a protein cascade that works with antibodies to exert their function
2
Q
What are the three effector functions of antibodies?
A
Neutralisation
Opsonisation
Complement fixation
3
Q
What is the C3 convertase of the classical and alternative pathways?
A
C4bC2a (classical)
C3bBb (Alternative)
4
Q
What are the effector functions of the complement pathway?
A
Opsonisation
Chemotaxis and activation of inflammation
Lysis
5
Q
What effect does complement have on B cells
A
The threshold for B cell activation is reduced by the presence of complement
6
Q
Clinically what will you see for complement and alternative pathway consumption
A
Alternative pathway - low C3, normal C4
Classical - Low C3 and Low C4
