MBB343   Biochemical Signalling   (10 credits)

Description

This module provides students with an understanding of the mechanisms by which eukaryotic cells communicate via signal transduction pathways. We will discuss how mammalian and plant cells transfer, and receive, information via pathways involving hormones and growth factors, cell surface or intracellular receptors, second messengers, G-proteins, reversible phosphorylation mechanisms, and transcriptional controls. We will explore how biochemical characteristics define the activity and specificity of signalling components, and the consequences of defective signalling pathways (e.g. how oncogene derived proteins lead to cancers). Examples considered in detail may include: the regulation of cell proliferation by epidermal growth factors, and in plants by auxin; stimulation of muscle contraction or relaxation by a range of signals; control of multiple pathways by adrenaline and cyclic AMP signalling during the fight-or-flight response; and the role of membrane derived inositol phosphates.

Reading List