Synopsis

Molecular Biology of the Cell is the classic in-depth text reference in cell biology. By extracting the fundamental concepts from this enormous and ever-growing field, the authors tell the story of cell biology, and create a coherent framework through which non-expert readers may approach the subject. Written in clear and concise language, and beautifully illustrated, the book is enjoyable to read, and it provides a clear sense of the excitement of modern biology. Molecular Biology of the Cell sets forth the current understanding of cell biology (completely updated as of Autumn 2001), and it explores the intriguing implications and possibilities of the great deal that remains unknown.

The hallmark features of previous editions continue in the Fourth Edition. The book is designed with a clean and open, single-column layout. The art program maintains a completely consistent format and style, and includes over 1,600 photographs, electron micrographs, and original drawings by the authors. Clear and concise concept headings introduce each section. Every chapter contains extensive references. Most important, every chapter has been subjected to a rigorous, collaborative revision process where, in addition to incorporating comments from expert reviewers, each co-author reads and reviews the other authors' prose. The result is a truly integrated work with a single authorial voice.

Table of Contents

    Special Features
    List of Topics
    Acknowledgments
    A Note to the Reader

Pt. I Introduction to the Cell
    1. Cells and Genomes
    2. Cell Chemistry and Biosynthesis
    3. Proteins

Pt. II Basic Genetic Mechanisms
    4. DNA and Chromosomes
    5. DNA Replication, Repair, and Recombination
    6. How Cells Read the Genome: From DNA to Protein
    7. Control of Gene Expression

Pt. III Methods
    8. Manipulating Proteins, DNA, and RNA
    9. Visualizing Cells

Pt. IV Internal Organization of the Cell
    10. Membrane Structure
    11. Membrane Transport of Small Molecules and the Electrical Properties of Membranes
    12. Intracellular Compartments and Protein Sorting
    13. Intracellular Vesicular Traffic
    14. Energy Conversion: Mitochondria and Chloroplasts
    15. Cell Communication
    16. The Cytoskeleton
    17. The Cell Cycle and Programmed Cell Death
    18. The Mechanics of Cell Division

Pt. V Cells in their Social Context
    19. Cell Junctions, Cell Adhesion, and the Extracellular Matrix
    20. Germ Cells and Fertilization
    21. Development of Multicellular Organisms
    22. Histology: The Lives and Deaths of Cells in Tissues
    23. Cancer
    24. The Adaptive Immune System
    25. Pathogens, Infection, and Innate Immunity

Glossary
Index
Tables: The Genetic Code, Amino Acids