The rapid advances in elucidating the biosynthesis and mode of action of the plant hormone ethylene, as well as its involvement in the regulation of the whole plant physiology, made imperative the organization of a series of dedicated conferences. This volume contains the main lectures and poster contributions presented at the 7th International Symposium on the Plant Hormone Ethylene held in Pisa in 2006.

In an age when advanced molecular and genetic tools allow studies in various systems, amphibian metamorphosis still offers perhaps the most accessible model for the study of postembryonic organogenesis and mechanisms of hormonal regulation during vertebrate development.

The definitive guide to modern embryology, this book is extensively illustrated with over 500 color and black-and-white images. The author describes and illustrates human prenatal development and staging with reference to molecular biology and discusses the possibility of following prenatal development with clinical methods of prenatal diagnostics. The development and staging of all embryonic systems are covered including, the cardiovascular system, skeletal system, urogenital system, lymphatic system, respiratory system, muscular system, and sensory organs.

Focusing on specific pathways or pathway components, Analysis of Growth Factor Signaling in Embryos provides the methods and guidelines for experimental design to study cell signaling in vertebrate embryos. With contributions from top researchers, the book incorporates molecular, cellular, and systems analysis while discussing signal transduction, protein phosphorylation, embryogenesis, pattern formation, and morphogenesis. It also covers multiple types of signaling components, including receptors, GTPases, and effector kinases, and discusses all of the major vertebrate embryonic model systems, such as Xenopus, mouse, zebrafish, and chick. This book will provide a foundation for further explorations of the cellular regulatory mechanisms governing vertebrate embryonic development.

Lectins are currently of interest in the research community because of their wide variety of properties and potential applications in pharmacology, immunology, and cancer therapy. Identifying lectins and their ligands is the particular focus of intense study. Featuring contributions from recognized experts, Animal Lectins: A Functional View presents up-to-date knowledge of the biological roles of animal lectins, including glycoprotein folding, sorting, and targeting; cell adhesion; embryogenesis; cell-cell interactions and signaling; as well as recognition and effector functions in innate immunity. This book also explores the structural basis of protein-carbohydrate interactions.

Apoptosis, Cell Signaling, and Human Diseases: Molecular Mechanisms, Volumes 1 and 2, present a concise synthesis of recent developments in the understanding of both cell survival and apoptotic pathways. Particular attention is given to apoptosis in human diseases, such as different forms of cancer. These comprehensive volumes integrate the most innovative and current findings. The contributors are at the forefront of scientific discovery.