In this volume a comprehensive review of membrane proteinsthat regulate complement and perforin-mediated cytolysis ispresented. A detailed analysisis provided of thebiochemical, molecular, and functional features of theseproteins; the glycosyl phosphatidylinositol linkedproteins are covered, with emphasis placed on the functionalimportance of this type of membrane anchor. Further chaptersinclude reviews of the effects of complement activation oncells that are metabolically active, and of the regulationof cell killing by cytotoxic lymphocytes, considering thesimilarities and disparities between the complement andperforin systems. The therapeutic use of recombinant CR1for immune-mediated pathophysiological processes isdiscussed in a separate section.

List of Contents

Regulation of Complement by Membrane Proteins: An Overview
Decay Accelerating Factor (CD55)
Complement Receptor Type 1
Membrane Cofactor Protein
Membrane Inhibitor of Reactive Lysis
Homologous Restriction Factor
The Effects of Complement Activation on Platelets
Effects of the Membrane Attack Complex of Complement on Nucleated Cells
Glycosyl-Phosphatidylinositol Anchoring of Membrane Proteins
Paroxysmal Nocturnal Hemoglobinuria
Perforin-Structure, Function, and Regulation.