Membrane Attack Complex forms on the surface of a foreign or pathogenic cell.
This is a direct result of the cascade of the Complement System and is an important aspect of the immune system
Composed of several proteins from the complement system:
– C5b
– C6
– C7
– C8
– C9
1.) Forms a ring structure that attaches to the foreign cell.
2.) Causes an opening or “punches a hole” into the outer cellular structure.
3.) This pore causes a release of cellular components such as water, ions and small molecules from the foreign invaders
4.) The result is lysis or death of the cell.