The complement system plays a key role in host defense functions and inflammatory reactions. This book provides the present state-of-the-art of the theoretical fundamentals and basic biochemical features of the complement system, its activation and regulation. The biological functions are also discussed in the context of more complex conditions, e.g. host defense, chronic inflammation and graft rejection. This is a thorough revision of the 1988 edition, with additional chapters addressing the progress made in the understanding of the interconnection of the complement system and other mediator...