Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Complement System
The complement system is a crucial part of the immune response, consisting of a series of proteins that enhance the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens. It can be activated through three pathways: classical, lectin, and alternative, each leading to the formation of a membrane attack complex that can lyse pathogens.
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Alternative Pathway Activation
The alternative complement activation pathway is initiated by the spontaneous hydrolysis of complement component C3, leading to the formation of C3b. This pathway does not require antibodies and is activated by the presence of pathogens, allowing for a rapid immune response.
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Role of Factors B and D
Factors B and D are essential components in the alternative pathway of complement activation. Factor B binds to C3b, and Factor D cleaves Factor B to form the C3 convertase, which amplifies the complement response by generating more C3b, thus enhancing opsonization and pathogen clearance.
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