Which complement protein is part of the membrane attack complex?

Prepare for the Immunology Test in Clinical Laboratory Science. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ensure success on your exam!

Multiple Choice

Which complement protein is part of the membrane attack complex?

Explanation:
The membrane attack complex is assembled from C5b through C9 to form the pore in target membranes. After C5 is cleaved, the C5b fragment kicks off the assembly by binding C6 and then recruiting C7, C8, and multiple C9 units. That makes C5 a component of the MAC. The other proteins listed—C1, C3, and C4—are involved in upstream steps of the cascade (initiation and amplification) and do not become part of the membrane attack complex itself. So C5 is the correct choice.

The membrane attack complex is assembled from C5b through C9 to form the pore in target membranes. After C5 is cleaved, the C5b fragment kicks off the assembly by binding C6 and then recruiting C7, C8, and multiple C9 units. That makes C5 a component of the MAC. The other proteins listed—C1, C3, and C4—are involved in upstream steps of the cascade (initiation and amplification) and do not become part of the membrane attack complex itself. So C5 is the correct choice.

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