Publisher's Synopsis
This new book covers the principles that have been defined for the way in which growth is controlled, showing how this can be subverted to generate uncontrolled growth. Starting with a look at the different types of signal transduction pathways, in particular the types of signal transduction involved in the control of growth and development, the historical origins of growth factors are comprehensively covered.;A general discussion of the way in which cells monitor their environment, and a look at the role of receptors, is followed by coverage of second messengers. This includes a description of signal transduction involving receptors which translate extracellular signals to the production of second messenger molecules, focussing on the production of cAMP, IP3 and DG.;The role of protein kinases as the intracellular targets of second messengers together with the dynamics of protein phosphorylation are illustrated and include detailed discussion of the protein phosphatases. The theme that cell proliferation and differentiation requires changes in gene expression is developed and followed in the penultimate chapter by consideration of the way in which individual signalling pathways interact. The book concludes with an overall summary of the current position, and suggests ways forward for future research.
