This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

C56789 membrane attack complex

Authoring team

The C5-9 membrane attack complex is formed by the activation of C5 to form C5b by either the classical or alternative pathways. C5b sits in the target cell membrane and sequentially binds C6 to C8. The new complex then binds 8 or 9 molecules of C9 which compose the walls of a pore spanning the target cell membrane.

The pore permits small molecules to pass to the inside with subsequent lysis of the target cell.

The membrane attack complex also has other less important functions:

  • stimulation of arachidonic acid metabolism
  • stimulation of killing mechnisms of leukocytes

Related pages

Create an account to add page annotations

Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.