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Growth Factors and Signal Transduction in Development Edited by Marit Nilsen-Hamilton, Professor of Biochemistry, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Iowa State University Animal development relies on the interaction of complex combinations of growth factors and their receptors. It has been discovered that many growth factors have the option of more than one receptor for signal transduction. Furthermore, these receptors can be expressed differently in different cell types and in the developing organism. This discovery points to the potential for fine regulation of the individual cellular response to growth factors. Growth Factors and Signal Transduction in Development thoroughly describes the interactions of several key growth factors, their receptors, and the subsequent signal transduction pathways they activate. This volume emphasizes the role of these signal pathways in directing developmental events. The editor has organized this book to contrast different signaling pathways using specific growth factors as paradigms: • FGF • IGF-1 • PDGF • IL-2 • EGF • TGFß Leading experts in the field have contributed to the unique mix of both molecular and biochemical perspectives as well as more integrative and organismal treatments of the well-studied amphibian, nematode, and insect developing systems. Significant aspects of mouse development are included in chapters that focus on particular growth factors. Most chapters contain comparative analyses of the role of growth factors, as well as their signal transduction mechanisms in these different developing systems. A notable feature of Growth Factors and Signal Transduction in Development is its glossary of genes and proteins referred to in this volume. It is designed to enhance an understanding of the relationship between genes and their protein products and enzymatic activities. The book’s integrative approach to the subject will prove especially useful to graduate students and researchers as well as research specialists in the areas of biochemistry, and molecular, cellular, and developmental biology.