The methods of molecular biology, biochemistry, immunocytochem istry, and in-situ hybridization introduce new opportunities for the classification and functional characterization of cell receptors under normal conditions and for a better understanding of pathogenetic mechanisms in human diseases. The cellular localization and trans location of receptor proteins can be identified using morphological methods, and it is apparent that receptors and receptor defects play an important role in pathology, notably in genetic diseases, endocrine disorders, atherosclerosis, infections, and cancer. In this volume in ternational experts give a current review of the morphology and pathological aspects of cell receptors. The complex communication of multicellular organisms is coordi nated by two regulatory systems: neural and humoral. Both systems function via signaling substances (ligands) and signal-recognizing and -transmitting molecules, called receptors. The historical develop ment of the receptor concept is based upon Paul Ehrlich's theory of "receptors in the immune system," Langley's "receptive substances in postssynaptic membranes," and Earl Sutherland's discovery of "sec ond messengers" (cAMP and Ca2+).

General Biochemical and Morphological Aspects

Historical Development of the Receptor Concept
Classification of Cell Receptors
Biochemical Characterization of Cellular Hormone Receptors
Morphological Characterization of Cell Receptors
Molecular Biology of Receptors for Neuropeptide Hormones
Cell Surface Receptors
Peptide Hormone Receptors
Growth Factor Receptors
Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptors
Neurotransmitter Receptors in Human Brain Diseases
Lectin Receptors
Cytosolic/Nuclear Receptors
Steroid Hormone Receptors
Oncogene and Receptor Expression
Oncogene and Receptor Expression
Special Aspects of Tumor Pathology
Breast Carcinoma
Prostatic Cancer - Immunohistochemistry of Steroid Hormone Receptors
Lineage-Specific Receptors in the Diagnosis of Malignant Lymphomas and Myelomonocytic Neoplasms.