Cell Biology

Introduction

Cell Biology: The fundamental science of life

Cells are the fundamental unit of life: thus, Cell Biology is life’s fundamental science. Genomics has provided a list of all of the components of the cell; but what do they do, how do they work and how are their functions coordinated to sustain life? And on a larger scale, what proteins determine the fate and define the function of different cell types to create tissues, organs and whole animals? These basic questions drive cell biological research. Cell Biology is an inter-disciplinary field, whose comprehensive toolbox includes ‘tried-and-true’ classical tools used with innovative new twists (including biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, and high resolution light and electron microscopy), and powerful new tools (including genomics, proteomics, combinatorial chemistry, stem cell biology and high through-put robotics).

Cell biologists at Scripps Research are providing important new insights into understanding and treatment of numerous human diseases, including muscular dystrophy, cystic fibrosis, cardiomyopathies, heart disease, cancer, retinal degeneration and mental retardation. Our work is defining the underlying mechanisms of human disease, identifying new therapeutic targets and laying the foundation for the development of new therapies.
The post-genome era will be one of rapid growth and discovery in cell biology. Through the application of sophisticated tools we are rapidly placing newly identified genes in their functional context within the cell and within our bodies. It could not be a more exciting time.