Lectin pathway of complement activation

Mannose-binding lectin

The lectin pathway of complement activation:

Initiated with serum lectin MBL (mannose-binding lectin). MBL binds to the carbohydrate structures of the surfaces of some microbes directly (independent of antibodies). Its structure and function are similar to C1 - after binding to the microbial surface it cleaves C4 and C2.

See also the Terminal (lytic) phase of the complement cascade.

Links

Related Articles

• Complement
• Alternative pathway of complement activation
• Classic pathway of complement activation
• Mannose-binding lectin deficiency
• Lectins

References

• HOŘEJŠÍ, Václav – BARTŮŇKOVÁ, Jiřina. Základy imunologie. 3. edition. Praha : Triton, 2008. pp. 280. ISBN 80-7254-686-4.