What is the function of the complement system in immunity?
Practice Questions
1 question
Q1
What is the function of the complement system in immunity?
To produce antibodies
To lyse pathogens
To activate T cells
To enhance inflammation
The complement system consists of proteins that enhance the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens, including the lysis of pathogens.
Questions & Step-by-step Solutions
1 item
Q
Q: What is the function of the complement system in immunity?
Solution: The complement system consists of proteins that enhance the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens, including the lysis of pathogens.
Steps: 5
Step 1: Understand that the complement system is made up of proteins in the blood.
Step 2: Know that these proteins help the immune system fight off infections.
Step 3: Learn that the complement system works with antibodies, which are special proteins that recognize and bind to pathogens (germs).
Step 4: Realize that when the complement proteins are activated, they can help destroy pathogens in two main ways: by marking them for destruction and by directly breaking them apart (lysis).
Step 5: Remember that phagocytic cells, which are like 'clean-up' cells in the immune system, are also helped by the complement system to find and eliminate pathogens more effectively.
