The concept of programmed cell death, or apoptosis, has
exploded into a major scientific field of interest for cell
biologists, oncologists, and many other biomedical researchers.
Apoptosis occurs throughout the lifetime of most multicellular
organisms. During development, for example, the selective death of
cells is vital to remove tissue between the digits to produce
fingers and toes. Apoptosis is also necessary to destroy cells that
represent a threat to the integrity of the organism, for example
cells infected by a virus. In many cancers the genes regulating
apoptosis are defective, producing immortal, continuously
proliferating cells. This book discusses the philosophical and
technical difficulties in defining the moment of death for a cell,
as well as the biological implications and significance of
programmed cell death. Recent developments in the genetic control
and interacting gene networks associated with apoptosis are
presented. The book is written for advanced undergraduate and
postgraduate students, and is highly illustrated to aid
understanding.
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