Explain the general features of the alternative, lectin, and classical complement pathways
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How are the pathways initiated?
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What intermediates are produced?
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what is the end result of each (membrane attack complex)?
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Predict consequences for individuals that lack specific complement components due to genetic anomalies (e.g. non-functional complement genes).
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Describe the key properties of a substance that functions as an opsonin.
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Explain the benefit of opsonization.
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Identify the complement products that function as opsonins (C3b primarily).
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Correctly identify complement cleavage products that function as anaphylatoxins (C3a and C5a primarily).
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Describe the functions and beneficial properties of an anaphylatoxin.
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Correctly list the 4 hallmark features of inflammation (heat, swelling, pain, redness)
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describe some of the biological processes involved in causing inflammation.
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Describe the source (liver) and the biological activities of mannose binding lectin and C-reactive protein.
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Describe examples of inhibitors of the complement pathways and explain how they function.
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Explain why it is important to have normal levels of inhibitory complement proteins.
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Use your understanding and knowledge of these issues to speculate and theorize about the cause, treatment, and consequences of complement-related health issues.
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