Intracellular Signal Transduction: The JAK-STAT Pathway


Book Description

This book is the first one written about the JAK/STAT pathway. The JAK (Janus Kinase) Protein tyrosine kinases are novel phosphotransferases absolutely required for cellular signalling downstream of non-catalytic cytokine receptors (amongst others). These molecules are components in pathways utilising the STAT (Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription) transcription factors. The basic components of the JAK/STAT pathway are covered in detail, and the centre piece of the book is a guided tour of the pathway itself. An interesting addition to the book is the chapter on the use of Drosophila melanogaster as a genetic system to probe the pathway at the whole organism level. The book is targeted to researchers who have an interest in intracellular signalling.







Signal Transduction


Book Description

Signal Transduction is a text reference on cellular signalling processes. Starting with the basics, it explains how cells respond to external cues (hormones, cytokines, neurotransmitters, adhesion molecules, extracellular matrix etc), and shows how these inputs are integrated and co-ordinated. The first half of the book provides the conceptual framework, explaining the formation and action of second messengers, particularly cyclic nucleotides and calcium, and the mediation of signal pathways by GTP-binding proteins. The remaining chapters deal with the formation of complex signalling cascades employed by cytokines and adhesion molecules, starting at the membrane and ending in the nucleus, there to regulate gene transcription. In this context, growth is an important potential outcome and this has relevance to the cellular transformations that underlie cancer. The book ends with a description at the molecular level of how signalling proteins interact with their environment and with each other through their structural domains. Each main topic is introduced with a historical essay, detailing the sources, key observations and experiments that set the scene for recent and current work.




International Textbook of Diabetes Mellitus


Book Description

The International Textbook of Diabetes Mellitus has been a successful, well-respected medical textbook for almost 20 years, over 3 editions. Encyclopaedic and international in scope, the textbook covers all aspects of diabetes ensuring a truly multidisciplinary and global approach. Sections covered include epidemiology, diagnosis, pathogenesis, management and complications of diabetes and public health issues worldwide. It incorporates a vast amount of new data regarding the scientific understanding and clinical management of this disease, with each new edition always reflecting the substantial advances in the field. Whereas other diabetes textbooks are primarily clinical with less focus on the basic science behind diabetes, ITDM's primary philosophy has always been to comprehensively cover the basic science of metabolism, linking this closely to the pathophysiology and clinical aspects of the disease. Edited by four world-famous diabetes specialists, the book is divided into 13 sections, each section edited by a section editor of major international prominence. As well as covering all aspects of diabetes, from epidemiology and pathophysiology to the management of the condition and the complications that arise, this fourth edition also includes two new sections on NAFLD, NASH and non-traditional associations with diabetes, and clinical trial evidence in diabetes. This fourth edition of an internationally recognised textbook will once again provide all those involved in diabetes research and development, as well as diabetes specialists with the most comprehensive scientific reference book on diabetes available.




Encyclopedic Reference of Molecular Pharmacology


Book Description

Presents current information on the molecular mechanisms of drug action. Provides 159 essays describing groups of drugs and drug targets. Several essays deal with general principles of pharmacology, such as drug tolerance, drug addiction, or drug metabolism.




Signal Transduction in Cancer


Book Description

One of the most exciting areas of cancer research now is the development of agents which can target signal transduction pathways that are activated inappropriately in malignant cells. The understanding of the molecular abnormalities which distinguish malignant cells from their normal counterparts has grown tremendously. This volume summarizes the current research on the role that signal transduction pathways play in the pathogenesis of cancer and how this knowledge may be used to develop the next generation of more effective and less toxic anticancer agents. Series Editor comments: "The biologic behavior of both normal and cancer cells is determined by critical signal transduction pathways. This text provides a comprehensive review of the field. Leading investigators discuss key molecules that may prove to be important diagnostic and/or therapeutic targets."




Biochemistry of Signal Transduction and Regulation


Book Description

This all-new edition of a classic text has been thoroughly revised to keep pace with the rapid progress in signal transduction research. With didactic skill and clarity the author relates the observed biological phenomena to the underlying biochemical processes. Directed to advanced students, teachers, and researchers in biochemistry and molecular biology, this book describes the molecular basis of signal transduction, regulated gene expression, the cell cycle, tumorigenesis and apoptosis. "Provides a comprehensive account of cell signaling and signal transduction and, where possible, explains these processes at the molecular level" (Angewandte Chemie) "The clear and didactic presentation makes it a textbook very useful for students and researchers not familiar with all aspects of cell regulation." (Biochemistry) "This book is actually two books: Regulation and Signal Transduction." (Drug Research)




Encyclopedia of Molecular Pharmacology


Book Description

An essential text, this is a fully updated second edition of a classic, now in two volumes. It provides rapid access to information on molecular pharmacology for research scientists, clinicians and advanced students. With the A-Z format of over 2,000 entries, around 350 authors provide a complete reference to the area of molecular pharmacology. The book combines the knowledge of classic pharmacology with the more recent approach of the precise analysis of the molecular mechanisms by which drugs exert their effects. Short keyword entries define common acronyms, terms and phrases. In addition, detailed essays provide in-depth information on drugs, cellular processes, molecular targets, techniques, molecular mechanisms, and general principles.




Signal Transduction and Human Disease


Book Description

This book uniquely relates the broad impact of signal transduction research on the understanding and treatment of human disease. There have been significant advances in the area of signaling in disease processes, yet no resource presently connects these advances with understanding of disease processes and applications for novel therapeutics. Given the emphasis on translational research and biological relevance in biotechnology, and, conversely, the importance of molecular approaches for clinical research, it is evident that a single resource bridging signaling research and human disease will be invaluable.




Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders


Book Description

Primary Immunodeficiency Disorders: A Historic and Scientific Perspective provides a complete historical context that is crucial for students and researchers concerned with primary immunodeficiency. When researchers have a poor understanding of the way we arrived where we are in research, they can miss important points about a disease, or miss out on how to approach new diseases. This historical knowledge of research can assist greatly by showing how it was done in the past, demonstrating the successes and failures, so that it can be done better in the future. This book provides an understanding of the process going from clinical problem to lab and back to the clinic, based on historical experiences. Its chapters proceed from the discovery of the T and B cell lineages through the first BMT for immunodeficiency disorder; lab investigation and gene therapy for PID; the discovery of the gene for AT and its function; understanding cytokine defects; and many other stops along the way. - Facilitates communication among physicians and other investigators concerned with immunological and inflammatory diseases - Summarizes for the first time all the known facts from 60 years of primary immunodeficiency research, and teaches how an important field in medicine was established - Provides stimulating discussions on developing new medical therapiesHighlights the importance of studying humans to understand mechanisms of disease that affect humans