Course information

This module looks at the various ways in which cells communicate with each other. Cell signalling not only involves the creation and reception of signals but also the mechanisms by which signals are transported across biological membranes. We will therefore consider the central role that biological membranes play in the regulation of the movement of molecules between different extracellular, intracellular and transcellular compartments. Also protein sorting and membrane trafficking will be studied. Using various examples of cell communication, the module will discuss both the molecular and the organismal implications of cell signalling. Topics covered include: (i) Lipids; (ii) Protein targeting and sorting; (iii) Membrane trafficking and transport; (iv) Wnt, Notch and Hedgehog signalling; (v) Plant cell signalling; (vi) Hippo signalling; (vii) Ubiquitylation and SUMOylation.