Three pathways that trigger complement activation include:
- Alternative pathway
- Classical pathway
- Lectin pathway

(Photo credits in References)

Pathways Triggering Complement Activation

A cascade in which complement precursors become functional. This process can be triggered in three different pathways.

University of Notre Dame

Features of the complement system include:
- Complement proteins
- Complement activation
- Opsonization
- Membrane attack complex

Features of the Complement System

OpenStax Concepts of Biology provides the necessary breadth and depth for core Biology concepts.

Link: https://openstax.org/details/books/concepts-biology/

OpenStax Biology 2nd Edition

https://openstax.org/details/books/microbiology/

Microbiology covers the scope and sequence requirements for a single-semester microbiology course for non-majors. The book presents the core concepts of microbiology with a focus on applications for careers in allied health. The pedagogical features of the text make the material interesting and accessible while maintaining the career-application focus and scientific rigor inherent in the subject matter. Microbiology’s art program enhances students’ understanding of concepts through clear and effective illustrations, diagrams, and photographs.

Microbiology is produced through a collaborative publishing agreement between OpenStax and the American Society for Microbiology Press. The book aligns with the curriculum guidelines of the American Society for Microbiology.

OpenStax Microbiology Textbook

Plasma protein mediators of the complement system. They normally circulate as precursor proteins in blood, and are considered components of innate immunity due to their constant presence in the blood and thus capable of quick activation. In alternative pathways, these proteins target invaders nonspecifically. 

Complement Proteins

A complex comprised of complement proteins C6, C7, C8, and C9, which when assembled causes C9 to polymerize into pores in gram-negative bacterial membranes. These pores let in molecules such as water and ions that accumulate within the bacterial cells and cause cell lysis and death. MAC is not effective for the destruction of gram-positive bacteria, hence a more heavy reliance on opsonization.

Learn Before

Related

Learn After

Learn After

Related