Complement Factor B, also known as CFB, is a protein that plays a vital role in the immune system by activating the complement pathway. The complement system is part of innate immunity and consists of a group of proteins that work together to recognize and eliminate foreign invaders such as bacteria and viruses.
Complement Factor B is produced in the liver and is present in the bloodstream. It is activated when the complement pathway is triggered. This activation occurs through a series of enzymatic reactions, leading to the cleavage of Complement Factor B into two fragments: Ba and Bb.
The Bb fragment of Complement Factor B combines with other complement proteins, particularly C3, to form an enzyme complex known as C3 convertase. This complex is responsible for cleaving C3 into C3a and C3b, which initiates the downstream cascade of complement activation. C3b acts by opsonizing pathogens, making them more susceptible to phagocytosis by immune cells or directly lysing the pathogens.
Complement Factor B is essential for the proper functioning of the complement system and is involved in many immune processes, including inflammation, defense against infections, and clearance of immune complexes. Mutations or dysregulation of Complement Factor B can lead to various diseases, such as atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome and age-related macular degeneration.
Further research on Complement Factor B and its complex interactions within the complement system will help in understanding the immune responses and developing therapies for complement-related disorders.
