Complement Pathways: How They Enhance Immune Response Against Pathogens

Both the classical and alternative complement pathways create

C3 convertase.

an immune response in the body. When an invading pathogen such as a bacteria or virus enters the body, the immune system responds by activating the classical pathway. This pathway involves the binding of the complement protein C1 to an antibody that has already been bound to the pathogen. Once C1 is bound, it becomes activated and cleaves other complement proteins, leading to the formation of a membrane attack complex that lyses the pathogen.

On the other hand, the alternative pathway does not require the presence of antibodies. It begins with the spontaneous activation of the complement protein C3. Once C3 is activated, it leads to the formation of a similar membrane attack complex that can help to lyse pathogens.

Both pathways are critical for an effective immune response. The classical pathway is initiated when antibodies bind to pathogens, whereas the alternative pathway is initiated by the spontaneous activation of complement proteins. Both pathways result in the formation of a membrane attack complex, which can help to lyse pathogens and prevent further infection. Additionally, the complement system can also help to recruit other immune cells to the site of infection, leading to a more effective immune response.

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