**Core Concept**
Goodpasture's syndrome is an autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of autoantibodies against the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) and pulmonary alveolar basement membrane. This results in the activation of complement and subsequent inflammation, leading to glomerulonephritis and pulmonary hemorrhage.

**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The autoantibodies in Goodpasture's syndrome target the non-collagenous domain 1 (NC1) region of type IV collagen, which is a key component of the GBM. This triggers an immune response, leading to the activation of the complement system and the recruitment of inflammatory cells to the affected tissues. The resulting damage to the GBM and pulmonary alveolar basement membrane can cause severe kidney and lung problems.

**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because Goodpasture's syndrome is not primarily characterized by the deposition of immune complexes in the GBM. While immune complexes can be present, the primary mechanism is the direct binding of autoantibodies to the GBM.

**Option B:** This option is incorrect because Goodpasture's syndrome is not caused by an infection. While some cases may be associated with infections, the primary cause is an autoimmune response.

**Option C:** This option is incorrect because Goodpasture's syndrome is not primarily characterized by the presence of anti-GBM antibodies against the alpha-3 chain of type IV collagen. While this is a related antigen, the primary target is the NC1 region of type IV collagen.

**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The presence of anti-GBM antibodies is a key diagnostic feature of Goodpasture's syndrome, and their detection can be used to differentiate this condition from other causes of glomerulonephritis.

**Correct Answer:** D