Complement System
Complement System
The Complement System (pronounced: /ˈkɒmplɪmənt ˈsɪstəm/) is a part of the Immune System that enhances (complements) the ability of Antibodies and Phagocytic Cells to clear Microbes and damaged cells from an organism, promote Inflammation, and attack the pathogen's cell membrane.
Etymology
The term "Complement" was coined in the late 19th century by the Nobel Prize-winning bacteriologist Jules Bordet. It refers to the activity of blood serum that completes the action of Antibodies.
Components
The Complement System consists of a number of small proteins found in the blood, generally synthesized by the Liver, and normally circulating as inactive precursors (pro-proteins). When stimulated by one of several triggers, proteases in the system cleave specific proteins to release Cytokines and initiate an amplifying cascade of further cleavages.
Functions
The major functions of the Complement System include:
- Lysis of cells, bacteria, and viruses
- Opsonization, which promotes Phagocytosis
- Triggering Inflammation and attracting Leukocytes
- Clearance of immune complexes and the products of inflammatory injury
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Complement System
- Wikipedia's article - Complement System
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