The complement system doesn't generate compliments for you... but it does help destroy pathogens in your body! Learn all about it in today's #ClinicalCuts. The complement system refers to a group of plasma proteins called the complement proteins, which are produced in the liver, and act collectively to help destroy pathogens. Think of them like a little militia that “complement” the work of antibodies. There are actually three complement pathways: • The classical pathway: called that because it was discovered first • The alternative pathway: which was found second and is always at work • The Lectin binding pathway: found third when folks got more descriptive with their naming All three pathways start out a bit differently, but they end the same way with a membrane attack complex called the MAC. It is a protein complex that creates a hole in a bacterial cell membrane, effectively destroying mainly gram-negative bacteria. Find the full explanation and video for the complement system on Osmosis: https://osms.it/cc-complement-system-yts #learnbyosmosis #shorts #medicine #nursing #physician #nurse #medicalschool #nursingschool #medstudent #nursingstudent #healthcare #complementsystem #immunesystem #physiology #pathology Find our full video library only on Osmosis: http://osms.it/more. Join millions of current and future clinicians who learn by Osmosis, along with hundreds of universities around the world who partner with Osmosis from Elseiver to make medical and health education more engaging and efficient. We have unparalleled tools and materials to prepare you for success in school, on your board exams, and as a future clinician. Sign up for a free trial at http://osms.it/more. If you're interested in exploring an institutional partnership, visit osmosis.org/educators to request a personalized demo. Follow us on social: Facebook: http://osms.it/facebook Twitter