Complement biosynthesis by mononuclear phagocytes.

Mononuclear phagocytes are an important in vivo source of a wide range of complement components. They are able to rapidly up-regulate or down-regulate complement synthesis in response to many different pharmacological and biological stimuli. This ability is likely to make a significant contribution to maintaining host defences particularly in peripheral tissues. The important role of molecular biology in the study of complement biosynthesis by mononuclear phagocytes will be emphasised.