The Complement System Flashcards
What is the main 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 innate immune system.
True
Fill in the blank: The complement system consists of over ____ proteins.
30
Which pathway of the complement system is activated by antibodies binding to antigens?
Classical pathway
What is the main enzyme involved in the complement system activation?
C3 convertase
Which complement protein is known for its ability to form membrane attack complexes?
C9
What is the name of the process where complement proteins coat the surface of pathogens to facilitate their recognition and destruction?
Opsonization
Which complement protein is responsible for the chemotaxis of immune cells to the site of infection?
C5a
True or False: The complement system can cause inflammation.
True
What is the role of the alternative pathway in the complement system?
To provide a rapid response to pathogens before antibodies are produced.
Which complement protein acts as a bridge between the innate and adaptive immune responses?
C3
What is the name of the process where the complement system helps to clear immune complexes and apoptotic cells?
C3b-mediated clearance
Fill in the blank: The complement system plays a crucial role in the defense against ____ infections.
bacterial
Which complement protein is involved in the formation of the membrane attack complex?
C6
True or False: Deficiencies in the complement system can lead to autoimmune diseases.
True
What is the name of the process where the complement system helps to regulate the immune response and prevent excessive inflammation?
Regulation of complement activation
Which complement protein is involved in the classical pathway and binds to antibodies?
C1q
True or False: The complement system can be activated by both antibody-dependent and antibody-independent mechanisms.
True
What is the role of the lectin pathway in the complement system?
To recognize and bind to specific sugar patterns on pathogens.
Which complement protein acts as an opsonin to facilitate phagocytosis?
C3b
Fill in the blank: The complement system can enhance the killing of pathogens by ____.
phagocytes
What is the main function of the membrane attack complex?
To create pores in the pathogen’s membrane, leading to cell lysis.
Which complement protein is involved in the lectin pathway and binds to carbohydrates on pathogens?
MBL (Mannose-binding lectin)
True or False: The complement system can contribute to the pathogenesis of certain diseases.
True
