@thebiocosmos: My most favorite protein complex made an appearance again but this time with more details. Membrane Attack Complex or MAC is mainly involved in immunity. The complex forms through a series of assembly of various complement protein peptides on the membrane of either bacteria or other cells, resulting in an absolutely magnificent structure that I often liken it to a drill, but at a nano scale. Recent studies have shown that MAC not only forms a hole on the plasma membrane but it can actually rip it open. MAC is some of the most tightly regulated protein complexes out there for obvious reasons. But MAC formation does not necessarily mean cell death! In many cases, MAC can particulate in intracellular signalling and can be regulated by the "attacked" cell through secretion of MAC inhibitor prtein such as CD59. MAC pore also exists in 2 conformations: Open and Close. The chasm (or the ridge) that runs along the body of MAC can seal up and form a complete portal. How significant this is to the function of MAC is still a bit unclear. But what we can say is that MAC is not just a dumb hole 😤 but very dynamic! You can read more about the mechanism of MAC assembly by searching the PMID: 30552328 #3d #digitalart #immunesystem #Science #thebiocosmos

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Thursday 16 October 2025 01:01:44 GMT