p. 11. Introduction To Cell Signalling
- John T. HancockJohn T. HancockProfessor of Cell Signalling, University of the West of England, Bristol
Abstract
This chapter explains why the study of cell signalling is important and instrumental to modern biology and traces the history of cell signalling. It outlines the principles behind the workings of cell signalling, which can be applied to all living systems, and discusses a selection of diseases caused by cell signalling dysfunction. It also describes cell signalling as a regulatory system that enables cells to control their inner workings and perceive their environment and respond when changes are required. The chapter highlights the need of cells of multicellular organisms to respond to the messages created by other cells and to conditions on their outsides. It demonstrates how cells communicate between each other and influence each other's activities through the release and reception of hormones.
