C3a and C5a contribute to which physiological process?

C3a and C5a are complement components that play a significant role in the immune response, particularly in the process of acute inflammation. When the complement system is activated, C3a and C5a are generated and act as anaphylatoxins. These molecules have several key functions that contribute to acute inflammation.

Firstly, C3a and C5a promote the recruitment of immune cells, such as neutrophils and mast cells, to the site of an infection or injury. They do this by increasing vascular permeability and causing blood vessels to dilate, which facilitates the movement of these immune cells from the bloodstream to tissues where they are needed.

Secondly, these complement components enhance the phagocytic activity of immune cells, improving their ability to engulf and destroy pathogens. This action is vital in the early stages of an immune response when the body is responding to infectious agents.

Furthermore, C3a and C5a can trigger the release of histamine from mast cells, further amplifying the inflammatory response and leading to symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain associated with acute inflammation.

Overall, C3a and C5a are crucial mediators of acute inflammation, making this option the most appropriate choice to describe the physiological processes