Unlike defects in antibodies or T cell functions, defects in complement components often lead to autoimmune-like symptoms, rather than to increased susceptibility to infections. This is because:
A) Complement components do not require antibodies to attack microbial pathogens.
B) The complement pathway normally functions to clear immune complexes from the circulation.
C) Complement inhibitory proteins are up-regulated by complement activation.
D) The complement pathway is part of the innate, rather than the adaptive immune response.
E) Partial activation of the complement cascade promotes phagocytosis of host cells.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Defects in complement components can lead to the inability to clear immune complexes from circulation, resulting in the activation of inflammatory pathways and autoimmune-like symptoms. This is because the complement pathway normally functions to clear immune complexes from the circulation. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

Unlike Defects in Antibodies or T Cell Functions, Defects in Complement