Question

If a series of genetic mutations prevented some, but not all, of the complement proteins from binding antibodies or pathogens, would the entire complement system be compromised?

a) Yes, the entire complement system would be compromised
b) No, only specific functions of the complement system would be affected
c) Genetic mutations have no impact on the complement system
d) The complement system is not involved in antibody binding

Answer 1

The entire complement system would not be totally compromised by mutations affecting only some complement proteins; only specific functions would be impacted as other pathways may still function.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a series of genetic mutations prevented some, but not all, of the complement proteins from binding antibodies or pathogens, the entire complement system would not be completely compromised. This is because the complement system functions as a cascade, where each protein initiates the activity of the subsequent protein. Therefore, if some proteins are unable to bind, only specific functions of the complement system would be affected.

The complement system is crucial for the immune response, as it helps to clear pathogens from an organism. Complement proteins work together in a sequence of reactions, leading to inflammation, phagocytosis, and cell lysis. If mutations affect some proteins, other pathways of the complement cascade can still operate, albeit less efficiently. For instance, even if the classical pathway is hindered, the alternative or lectin pathways might still function to some degree.