Blood coagulation and fibrinolysis has been traditionally classed as a part of hematology and the complement system as a part of immunology. An analysis of these two systems at a molecular level, however, has revealed some intriguing evolutionary relationships among some of the macromolecules involved. Evidently, there are similarities in the cascade of reactions that characterize the processes. It is therefore highly suitable that these topics are presented together in one volume. This book presents a thorough explanation and analysis of our current understanding of the proteins and enzymes involved in each of the three processes, and includes a section devoted to special topics of relevance, such as the kinin system, glycosylation, signal peptides, and the serpin family.

This book provides a comprehensive account of the proteins involved in blood coagulation, fibrinolysis and the complement system. A major section of the book is devoted to each of these three systems, with separate chapters dealing in detail with structural aspects and different functional processes. Topics covered in the blood coagulation section include the activation of factors IX and X and prothrombin, and the formation and stabilisation of fibrin. The fibrinolysis section includes the activation of plasminogen, the degradation of fibrin and the regulation of fibrinolysis. The complement system itself is covered in chapters dealing with classical activation, alternative activation, the lytic complex and the regulatory processes involved. In addition, one section deals with special topics, including the kinin system, signal peptides, haemostasis, and the evolution of protein structure. This volume will be of use to researchers and advanced students in the fields of haematology, immunology and clinical chemistry.