One type mobilizes natural killer cells, which destroy tumor cells. May change malignant cell membranes, making them less likely to metastasize. Mediates the inflammatory response by activating macrophages. Stimulates the immune response. A group of at least 20 proteins that interact with other branches of the body's defense network.
Proteins circulate in the blood in inactive form.
Some activated proteins amplify the inflammatory response by stimulating histamine release and attracting phagocytes. Some proteins aggregate to form a membrane attack complex which inserts into foreign cell membranes causing lysis.