Membrane Defenses Against Attack by Complement and Perforins

In this volume a comprehensive review of membrane proteins that regulate complement and perforin-mediated cytolysis is presented. A detailed analysisis provided of the biochemical, molecular, and functional features of these proteins; the glycosyl phosphatidylinositol linked proteins are covered, with emphasis placed on the functional importance of this type of membrane anchor. Further chapters include reviews of the effects of complement activation on cells that are metabolically active, and of the regulation of cell killing by cytotoxic lymphocytes, considering the similarities and disparities between the complement and perforin systems. The therapeutic use of recombinant CR1 for immune-mediated pathophysiological processes is discussed in a separate section.