What Is the Membrane Attack Complex?
The membrane attack complex, frequently referred to as the complement membrane attack complex and abbreviated to the MAC, is one of the methods used by the immune system to attack threats to the body. The membrane attack complex is closely related to the complement system, which exists to aid antibodies and other aspects of the immune system in clearing pathogens from one’s body. The complementary system and the attack complex both involve many varieties of proteins that are found in the blood. The proteins bind to the membranes of pathogenic cells and form a circular pore that allows extracellular substances into the cell. When enough of these pores form, the integrity of the cell is severely compromised and cellular death is almost inevitable.
