Complement System vs. Antibodies: Key Differences Explained

The statement that complement cells produce antibodies is incorrect. Here's the distinction:

Antibodies

• Produced by plasma cells (differentiated B lymphocytes).
• Part of the adaptive immune response; they recognize specific antigens.

Complement System

• Consists of a cascade of proteins (not cells) that enhance the ability of antibodies and phagocytic cells to clear pathogens.
• Acts as part of the innate immune system; it does not produce antibodies.
• Functions include opsonization, inflammation, and direct lysis of microbes via the membrane attack complex.

In short, antibodies are specialized proteins made by B cells, while the complement system is a group of proteins that work alongside antibodies to destroy invaders.