PAS Proteins: Regulators and Sensors of Development and Physiology

This volume provides a comprehensive examination of the biochemistry and biology of all classes of known PAS proteins, with the intention that readers will find insight into their own work and ideas from study of the multitude of PAS protein functions. PAS proteins control numerous physiological and developmental events and span phylogeny from bacteria to man. Bacterial and plant PAS proteins act as sensors of environmental stimuli, including light, oxygen and energy status. Not surprising, given these roles, there is intense investigation of the roles of bHLH-PAS proteins in issues of human health including: (1) cancer induction, (2) cancer growth and vascularity, (3) birth defects, including Down syndrome, (4) appetite control and obesity, (5) sleep rhythm disorders and (6) mental health disorders such as social interactions and learning.