What does MCP stand for?

MCP stands for Membrane Cofactor Proteins. These proteins play a crucial role in the regulation of the complement system, which is a part of the immune response. Specifically, Membrane Cofactor Proteins serve as co-factors for factor I in cleaving C3b and C4b, thereby preventing the excessive activation of the complement system on the surface of host cells. This mechanism is essential for protecting host tissues from damage while allowing for effective immune responses against pathogens.

Additionally, these proteins help to maintain immune homeostasis by promoting the clearance of apoptotic cells and by facilitating the removal of complement-opsonized pathogens. Understanding the role of MCPs is vital in immunology as they exemplify the balance between immune activation and regulation, highlighting the complexity of the immune system.