Question

Other complement proteins combine to form a membrane attack complex that produces ________ in the surface of bacteria and some viruses. The loss of membrane integrity allows fluids and salts to enter the bacterial cell or virus to the point that it bursts.

1. Pores
2. Channels
3. Receptors
4. Vesicles

Answer 1

The membrane attack complex forms pores in the plasma membranes of bacteria and some viruses, resulting in pathogen lysis due to the influx of water and salts.

Step-by-step explanation:

The membrane attack complex (MAC) is a structure formed by the assembly of complement proteins, specifically fragments from C5 along with C6, C7, C8, and C9. This complex creates pores in the plasma membrane of bacteria and some viruses. As a result, fluids and salts rush into the pathogen, leading to a loss of membrane integrity that causes the pathogen to lyse, or burst.

The formation of pores disrupts the balance of the cell and essentially results in the death of the pathogen due to an uncontrollable influx of water. This membrane attack complex is a crucial part of the body's innate immune response to invading pathogens and is particularly effective against those lacking protective virulence factors.