This text tells the story of cells as the units of life in a colorful and student-friendly manner, taking an "essentials only" approach. By using the successful model of previously published "Short Courses," this text succeeds in conveying the key points without overburdening the reader with secondary information. The authors (all active researchers and educators) skillfully present concepts by illustrating them with clear diagrams and examples from current research. Special boxed sections focus on the importance of cell biology in medicine and industry today. This text is completely updated from the successful "Cell Biology, A Short Course, 2e," includes new chapters and now has a supporting website with tests and animations for students and power point slides and supplemental material for instructors.
Preface. Acknowledgments. Instructor Notes. 1. Cells and Tissues. 2. From Water to DNA: The Chemistry of Life. 3. Membranes and Organelles. 4. DNA Structure and the Genetic Code. 5. DNA As A Data Storage Medium. 6. Transcription and the Control of Gene Expression. 7. Recombinant DNA and Genetic Engineering. 8. Manufacturing Protein. 9. Protein Structure. 10. Intracellular Protein Trafficking. 11. How Proteins Work. 12. Energy Trading Within the Cell. 13. Metabolism. 14. Ions and Voltages. 15. The Action Potential. 16. Intracellular Signaling. 17. Intercellular Communication. 18. Mechanical Molecules. 19. Cell Cycle and the Control of Cell Number. 20. Case Study: Cystic Fibrosis. Appendix: Channels and Carriers. Glossary. Index.
Steve Bolsover is Professor of Cell Physiology in the Department of Physiology. His widely published research concerns, among other topics, the role of calcium as an intracellular messenger. Jeremy S. Hyams is Professor of Cell Biology in the Department of Biology. Elizabeth A. Shephard is Professor in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Hugh A. White is Senior Lecturer in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Claudia G. Weidemann is Lecturer in the Department of Physiology. All authors hold their appointments at University College London, and head internationally respected laboratories investigating various aspects of cell biology.
As well as covering key principles it incorporates some great stories such as 'Curing Mad Mice with Smelly Fish.' (Journal of Biological Education, 2005)