Insulin: Molecular Biology to Pathology

Abstract Diabetes is caused by a partial or total lack of the hormone insulin, and is one of the world's major health problems. This book provides an accessible introduction to the current research into all aspects of the synthesis and action of insulin. In the last few years there have been a number of exciting developments in the study of insulin at the molecular level. These developments are presented alongside discussions of the pathology of diabetes, providing the first integrated account of insulin’s physiological action and its significance in disease. Chapters have been assembled from a range of experts in the field, covering topics such as the insulin gene, insulin biosynthesis and secretion, the insulin receptor, and the genetic and immunological aspects of diabetes. Insulin: Molecular Biology to Pathology has been designed with the non-specialist in mind, and includes an extensive glossary of terms. It will enable both researchers and clinicians to gain new insights into unfamiliar areas and will be useful to anyone with an interest in this fascinating hormone.