Principles of Cell Biology, Third Edition builds a conceptual framework of cell biology using 14, easy-to-understand principles to show how cells function and why we study them. The text begins with an introduction to the fundamental molecular building blocks of cells: sugars, proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids and then moves on to illustrate how cells use these building blocks to perform their essential functions. With each chapter devoted to a specific principle, students will gain knowledge and understanding that will remain long after the course is complete.