Complement, cytokines, and adhesion molecule expression in inflammatory reactions

Directional emigration of neutrophils is the hallmark of phlogistic processes. The involved regulatory mechanisms include complement activation products, cytokines, adhesion molecules, and their respective counter receptors. In this article, we discuss the role of these mediators in initiation, development, and containment of acute inflammatory responses in in vitro and in vivo models, showing interactions between a network of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory effectors. A major focus deals with the effects of complement on activation of the vascular endothelium. In addition, the role of interleukins in the regulation of inflammatory responses is described.