Page 113 - MNU microbiology theoritical 2025

General Microbiology & Immunology (PM 401) Second level Semester 4 2024/2025

Interferons

Terms related to complement system

• Opsonization: The process by which bacteria are altered in such a manner that

they are more readily and more efficiently engulfed by phagocytes.

• Opsonin: any of various proteins (as antibodies or complements) that bind to

foreign particles and cells (as bacteria) making them more susceptible to the

action of phagocytes.

• Anaphylatoxin: a substance produced by complement activation that causes the

release of histamine and other mediators of immediate hypersensitivity from

basophils and mast cells, thereby producing signs and symptoms of immediate

hypersensitivity (anaphylaxis).

General Microbiology & Immunology (PM 401) theoretical handbook Page 102