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Multiple Choice
The alternative pathway resulting in the formation of C3 convertase and the splitting of C3 into C3a and C3b. C3a triggers the inflammatory response. What is the function of C3b created by the alternative pathway?
A
Opsonization of invading microbes.
B
Cell lysis of invading microbes.
C
Binding to invading microbes further stimulating the alternative pathway.
D
Combing with other complement proteins to form the inflammasome.
E
A and B.
F
C and D.
G
A, B, and C.
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Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of the alternative pathway in the complement system, which is part of the innate immune response. It is activated on microbial surfaces in the absence of antibodies.
Recognize that C3 convertase is an enzyme complex that cleaves C3 into C3a and C3b. C3a is involved in the inflammatory response, while C3b has multiple functions.
Identify the function of C3b in opsonization, where it binds to the surface of invading microbes, marking them for phagocytosis by immune cells such as macrophages and neutrophils.
Acknowledge that C3b also participates in the formation of the membrane attack complex (MAC) by binding to other complement proteins, leading to cell lysis of invading microbes.
Note that C3b can bind to microbial surfaces, further amplifying the alternative pathway by forming additional C3 convertase, thus enhancing the immune response.