Lecture 3 - The Complement System

Question 1

Functions of the Complement System

Answer 1

1) kill microbes
2) induce inflammation
3) recruit phagocytes
4) opsonize and facilitate phagocytosis

Question 2

What re the 3 complement pathways?

Answer 2

1) Classical
2) Alternative
3) Lectin

Question 3

Main Steps of the Complement System

Answer 3

1) C3 convertase makes fragment of C3a and C3b which are important for opsonization and inflammation, respectively
2) C5 Convertase makes fragment of C5a and C5b, which are important for inflammation and leading to the next step
3) MAC protein formation, which forms holes in microbial membranes