Indicate which statements are true. Correct all false statements by changing the underlined words.


__________ A membrane attack complex drills circular holes in a macrophage.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the role of the membrane attack complex (MAC) in the immune system.
2. Understand that the MAC is part of the complement system, which targets pathogens, not host cells like macrophages.
3. Recognize that the MAC forms pores in the membranes of target cells, typically bacteria, leading to cell lysis.
4. Correct the statement by replacing 'macrophage' with 'pathogen' or 'bacterial cell'.
5. Verify the corrected statement: 'A membrane attack complex drills circular holes in a pathogen.'

Key Concepts

Membrane Attack Complex (MAC)

The Membrane Attack Complex is a structure formed by the complement system, which is part of the immune response. It assembles on the surface of target cells, such as bacteria, and creates pores in their membranes, leading to cell lysis. However, it primarily targets pathogens rather than host cells like macrophages, which are immune cells that help eliminate infections.

Macrophages

Macrophages are a type of white blood cell that play a crucial role in the immune system. They are responsible for phagocytosing pathogens, presenting antigens, and secreting cytokines to orchestrate the immune response. Unlike target cells for the MAC, macrophages are vital for defending the body against infections and should not be harmed by the immune mechanisms designed to eliminate pathogens.

Complement System

The complement system is a group of proteins that enhance the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens from an organism. It can be activated through various pathways, leading to opsonization, inflammation, and the formation of the Membrane Attack Complex. Understanding this system is essential for recognizing how the body distinguishes between self and non-self cells during immune responses.