Signal Transduction

Catalog description

Cells in multicellular organisms are in constant communication with each other. One way that cells communicate is through the sharing of chemical signals through a process called “signal transduction.” In this course, we will study the basic biochemical principles of signal transduction to better understand life on a molecular level. Topics to be covered include a broad overview of signal transduction mechanisms, including basic receptor theory and the use of second messengers; investigations into specific signaling strategies, including signaling via receptor ion channels, G protein-coupled receptors, and nuclear hormone receptors; and examinations of cellular mechanisms used to coordinate signaling spatially and temporally. Special focus will be placed on roles of signal transduction pathways in health and disease.