The complement system consists of a number of small proteins found in the blood, generally synthesized by the liver, and normally circulating as inactive precursors (pro-proteins). When stimulated by one of several triggers, proteases in the system cleave specific proteins to release cytokines and initiate an amplifying cascade of further cleavages. The end result of this activation cascade is massive amplification of the response and activation of the cell-killing membrane attack complex. Over 25 proteins and protein fragments make up the complement system, including serum proteins, serosal proteins, and cell membrane receptors. They account for about 5% of the globulin fraction of blood serum.
pH:
Normal
Immunoelectrophoresis: Normal
Hemoglobin: Normal
Strain: Sprague Dawley
Sex: Mixed
Storage and Stability:
Temperature sensitive. For long-term storage, aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing and freeze at -70 degrees C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. Aliquots are stable for 6 months.