'This book most certainly fulfils its promise as a comprehensive reference guide and is an exceptional accomplishment for one author … It is well written and has excellent black-and-white figures.' American Entomology

Many of the 14,000 genes of Drosophila are involved in the development of imaginal discs. These hollow sacs of cells make adult structures during metamorphosis, and their study is crucial to comprehending how a larva becomes a fully-functioning fly. This book examines the genetic circuitry of the well-known 'fruit fly', tackling questions of cell assemblage and pattern formation, of the hows and the whys behind the development of the fly. After an initial examination of the proximity versus pedigree imperatives, the book delves into bristle pattern formation and disc development, with entire chapters devoted to the leg, wing, and eye. Extensive appendices include a glossary of protein domains, catalogues of well-studied genes, and an outline of signaling pathways. More than 30 wiring diagrams among over 60 detailed schematics clarify the text. No student or practising scientist engaged in the study of Drosophila genetics should be without this comprehensive reference.

Preface
1. Cell lineage versus intercellular signaling
2. The bristle
3. Bristle patterns
4. Origin and growth of discs
5. The leg disc
6. The wing disc
7. The eye disc
8. Homeosis
Epilogue
Appendices
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Cellular biology [cytology PSF], Developmental biology [PSC], Genetics [non-medical PSAK]