The word "anticomplement" is spelled phonetically as /æntiˌkɒmplɪˈmɛnt/. The first syllable is pronounced as "an-ti", with the "a" sounding like the "a" in "cat". The second syllable is "compli", with the stress on the second syllable and the "i" sounding like the "i" in "it". The final syllable is "ment", with the "e" sounding like the "e" in "men". "Anticomplement" refers to a substance that inhibits or neutralizes the activity of a complement, a component of the immune system.
Anticomplement is a term used in immunology to describe substances or agents that can inhibit or neutralize the effects of complements. Complement is a group of proteins in the blood that work together as part of the immune system to help defend the body against foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses. Anticomplements, on the other hand, are able to counteract or diminish the activity of these complement proteins.
Anticomplement agents can be naturally occurring or artificially synthesized compounds. They are often used in laboratory experiments and medical research to study the mechanisms of complement activation and its role in various immune response processes. Anticomplements can provide valuable insights into potential therapeutic interventions for complement-related disorders or diseases.
The inhibitory effect of anticomplements is achieved through various mechanisms, including binding to the complement proteins and preventing their activation or function, or by interfering with the interaction between complements and other molecules within the immune system. By blocking the complement cascade, anticomplements can help regulate the immune response and minimize the risk of excessive inflammation or tissue damage.
In summary, anticomplement refers to substances that possess the ability to inhibit or neutralize the activity of complement proteins in the immune system. They play a vital role in immunological research and hold potential therapeutic value in combating complement-related disorders or diseases.
A substance which combines with a complement and so neutralizes its action by preventing its union with the amboceptor; antialexin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "anticomplement" is formed by combining the prefix "anti-" (meaning against or opposite) and the term "complement". The term "complement" comes from the Latin word "complementum", which means "completion" or "whole". In the context of immunology and medical sciences, "complement" refers to a group of proteins that work together as part of the immune system to assist in the destruction of foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses, as well as in inflammatory responses.
In this context, "anticomplement" refers to substances or compounds that act against or inhibit the functioning of the complement system. The "anti-" prefix indicates opposition or antagonism to the complement system, making it an appropriate term for describing such substances or agents.