Book description
An integrative view of the evolution of genetics and the natural world
Even in this advanced age of genomics, the evolutionary process of
unicellular and multicellular organisms is continually in debate.
Evolutionary Biology, Cell-Cell Communication, and Complex Disease
challenges current wisdom by using physiology to present an
integrative view of the nature, origins, and evolution of fundamental
biological systems.
Providing a deeper understanding of the way genes relate to the
traits of living organisms, this book offers useful information
applying evolutionary biology, functional genomics, and cell
communication studies to complex disease. Examining the 4. 5
billion-year evolution process from environment adaptations to
cell-cell communication to communication of genetic information for
reproduction, Evolutionary Biology hones in on the "why and
how" of evolution by uniquely focusing on the cell as the
smallest unit of biologic structure and function.
Based on empirically derived data rather than association studies,
Evolutionary Biology covers:
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A model for forming testable hypotheses in complex disease studies
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The integrating role played by the evolution of metabolism,
especially lipid metabolism
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The evolutionary continuum from development to homeostasis
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Regeneration and aging mediated by signaling molecules
Ambitious and game-changing Evolutionary Biology suggests that
biology began as a mechanism for reducing energy within the cell,
defying the Second Law of Thermodynamics. An ideal text for those
interested in forward thinking scientific study, the insights
presented in Evolutionary Biology help practitioners effectively
comprehend the evolutionary process.
John Torday, PhD, is Professor of Pediatrics and
Ob/Gyn at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center where he is also Director of The
Henry L. Guenther Laboratory for Cell/Molecular Research and Director
of Laboratory for Evolutionary Preventive Medicine. He is the author
of over 130 peer-reviewed articles, Dr. Torday specializes in pre and
neo-natal lung development, particularly regarding cell-cell
communication within this pathway.
V. K. Rehan, MD, is Professor of Pediatrics and Director of the
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. The
recipient of numerous teaching honors, Dr. Rehan is involved both in
treating patients and continuing research on neo and peri-natal
respiratory issues and lung development.
