Fig 1

Complement function. The two primary functions of the complement system are to modify pathogens and self-debris with clusters of complement fragments (opsonization). This, in turn, facilitates interaction with complement receptors and, in some bacteria and viruses, induces lysis. The second function is to promote the inflammatory response. Complement fragments C3a and C5a generated during activation of the cascades stimulate many cell types. In the case of mast cells, release of immunomodulatory granules also attracts phagocytic cells into the area of inflammation (chemotaxis)