What complement factor is activated by the CPB circuit?

Master the ABCP Perfusion Basic Science Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question includes hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam today!

Multiple Choice

What complement factor is activated by the CPB circuit?

Explanation:
Exposure of blood to the artificial surfaces of a CPB circuit activates the complement system, mainly via the alternative pathway, leading to cleavage of C3 into C3a and C3b. C3a acts as an anaphylatoxin, driving vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and chemotaxis. Thus, the complement factor activated by the CPB circuit is C3A. The other options involve pathways or steps that aren’t the primary initial activation on CPB surfaces: C1q starts the classical pathway, C4B is part of the classical/lectin pathways downstream, and C5 is produced later in the cascade as a downstream product.

Exposure of blood to the artificial surfaces of a CPB circuit activates the complement system, mainly via the alternative pathway, leading to cleavage of C3 into C3a and C3b. C3a acts as an anaphylatoxin, driving vasodilation, increased vascular permeability, and chemotaxis. Thus, the complement factor activated by the CPB circuit is C3A. The other options involve pathways or steps that aren’t the primary initial activation on CPB surfaces: C1q starts the classical pathway, C4B is part of the classical/lectin pathways downstream, and C5 is produced later in the cascade as a downstream product.

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