C3 convertase cleaves C3 into
C3a and C3b
C3a and C3b fragments.
C3 convertase is a critical component of the complement system, which is a complex cascade of proteins that play an essential role in the immune response against invading pathogens. The primary function of C3 convertase is to cleave (split) the C3 protein into smaller fragments called C3a and C3b.
C3b is a crucial component of the complement system as it can bind covalently to the surface of microbial cells or pathogens, triggering their destruction. C3b can also bind to other complement proteins, such as C4b or C2a, to form a complex known as the C5 convertase, which initiates the formation of the membrane attack complex (MAC).
C3a, on the other hand, is a small peptide that can induce inflammation by activating immune cells like mast cells and macrophages. The activation of these immune cells leads to the recruitment of other immune cells, causing an inflammatory response that helps to eliminate infections.
In summary, C3 convertase cleaves C3 into C3a and C3b fragments, which play critical roles in both the elimination of pathogens as well as the initiation of an inflammatory response.
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