Table 1.

Summary of changes induced by IL-4 in ECs that allow resealing of complement-induced membrane lesions and resistance against killing (based on refs. 2, 4 and 5)

Stimulation of phospholipid synthesis resulting in:

Preserved mitochondrial ultrastructure

Preserved mitochondrial electrical conductance

Reduced loss of cellular ATP

Up-regulation of intercellular junction protein claudin-5 resulting in:

Decreased paracellular permeability

Reduced decrease in electrical membrane resistance caused by complement