Complement system Flashcards
1
Q
What is the complement system?
A
A group of proteins found in the blood, that enhances the ability of antibodies and phagocytes to clear pathogens from an organism.
2
Q
Is the complement system part of the adaptive or innate immune system?
A
Innate
3
Q
Where are the proteins that make up the complement system come from?
A
They are mostly synthesised by the liver
4
Q
In what form do the proteins of the complement circulate in the blood?
A
Pre-proteins
Inactive precursors which are then activated by a trigger
5
Q
How many proteins make up the complement system?
A
About 30
6
Q
What 4 things does the complement do?
A
- Opsonisation
- Chemotaxis
- Cell lysis
- Agglutination
7
Q
What is opsonisation?
A
Enhancing p
