Cell growth, differentiation, and senescence: a practical approach

There are three main themes running through this volume. First, basic methods for measurement of cell proliferation are introduced and explained with reference to various systems, primarily in vitro, but in vivo procedures are also illustrated. The second theme is growth signalling, and is exemplified by methods for the analysis of transduction pathways for growth, beginning at the cell membrane and leading to the cell nucleus. The last theme presented here is growth cessation, illustrated by several systems for induction of cell differentiation, and of cell senescence. The emphasis throughout the book is on human cell systems, making it particularly relevant to scientists interested in human disease, especially cancer. Importantly, well proved methods for studying cell growth are supplemented by some novel approaches, e.g., studies of cell cycle checkpoints, cell spheroids, and nuclear architecture. Only two chapters have been retained, in an updated form from Cell Growth and Apoptosis, the predecessor volume. The book is written by a team of scientists highly experienced in procedures they describe, and offer details and hints found valuable in their own laboratories; thus, variants of the same general methods can be found in different chapters. These should be helpful to beginning as well as experienced investigators, and are designed to stimulate new approaches to old and new questions.