What is the primary function of anaphylotoxins (e.g., C3a, C4a, C5a) in the immune system?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Inducing inflammation and recruiting immune cells. Anaphylotoxins, such as C3a, C4a, and C5a, are small molecules that are released during complement activation. They play a crucial role in enhancing inflammation by attracting immune cells to the site of infection or injury.
1. Anaphylotoxins induce inflammation by stimulating the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators.
2. They promote vasodilation and increase vascular permeability, allowing immune cells to easily reach the affected area.
3. Anaphylotoxins also act as chemoattractants, recruiting neutrophils, macrophages, and other immune cells to the site of inflammation to help fight against pathogens.
4. These molecules do not suppress inflammation (choice A), facilitate antigen presentation (choice B), or neutralize pathogens (choice D). Their primary function is to amplify the immune response by inducing inflammation and recruiting immune cells to combat infections