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Peptide Self-Assembly and Engineering State-of-the-art research in peptide self-assembly, with coverage of fundamental aspects of how peptides self-assemble and an extensive number of applications Peptide Self-Assembly and Engineering: Fundamentals, Structures, and Applications (2V set) covers the latest progresses in the field of peptide self-assembly and engineering, including the fundamental principles of peptide self-assembly, new theory of nucleation and growth, thermodynamics and kinetics, materials design rules, and precisely controlled structures and unique functions. The broad contents from this book enable readers to obtain a systematical and comprehensive knowledge in the field of peptide self-assembly and engineering. Contributed by the leading scientists and edited by a highly qualified academic and an authority in the field, Peptide Self-Assembly and Engineering includes information on: Emerging areas in peptide assembly, such as immune agents, bioelectronics, energy conversion, flexible sensors, biomimetic catalysis, and more Existing applications in biomedical engineering, nanotechnology, and photoelectronics, including tissue engineering, drug delivery, and biosensing devices History of peptide self-assembly for design of functional materials and peptides'unique mechanical, optical, electronic, and biological properties Various solvent conditions, such as pH, ionic strength, and polarity, that can affect the structure and stability of peptide assemblies A very comprehensive reference covering the latest progresses in the field of peptide self-assembly and engineering, Peptide Self-Assembly and Engineering is an essential resource for all scientists performing research intersecting with the subject, including biochemists, biotechnologists, pharmaceutical chemists, protein chemists, materials scientists, and medicinal chemists.

This book provides a state-of-the-art overview of key areas of subcellular aging research in human cells. The reader is introduced to the historical development and progress in biomedical aging research and learns, for example, about the role of microRNAs, circRNAs, mitochondria and extracellular vesicles in cellular senescence. The reader will also learn more about how gap junctions, the nuclear pore complex and the proteasome are affecting the ageing processes. In addition, novel therapeutic opportunities through modulation of cellular senescence are discussed. The book follows on from Parts I and II of Biochemistry and Cell Biology of Ageing (Volumes 90 and 91 of the Subcellular Biochemistry book series) by covering interesting and significant biomedical ageing topics not included in the earlier volumes. Comprehensive and cutting-edge, this book is a valuable resource for experienced researchers and early career scientist alike, who are interested in learning more about the fascinating and challenging question of why and how our cells age.

Abiotic stressors, such as drought, extreme temperatures, heavy metals, or high salinity, are causing huge crop losses worldwide. These abiotic stressors are expected to become more extreme, less predictable, and more widespread in the near future. The harm of abiotic stresses includes the disruption of cellular redox homeostasis, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and oxidative stress in the plant. Plants have different mechanisms to fight stress, and these mechanisms are responsible for maintaining the required homeostasis in plants. Research on gasotransmitters is rapidly expanding and knowledge regarding the potential of gasotransmitters in biology and medicine is accumulating. Over the past few decades, the roles of these signaling molecules, especially NO and H2S, have been extensively studied for their application in plants. Recently, the emissions of endogenous gasotransmitters in plants have been widely studied and analyzed, thereby providing information to facilitate our understanding of new gasotransmitters signaling pathways. Given the multidimensional role of these signaling molecules, research over the past decades in mitigating abiotic stresses in plant biology and from an agriculture point of view, we intend to bring forth a comprehensive volume “Gasotransmitters Signaling in Plants under Challenging Environment'. We are hopeful that this comprehensive volume will furnish the requisite of all those who are working or have an interest in the proposed topic

Senescence, Senotherapeutics and Mitochondria, Volume 136 offers updates on this unique topics, with chapters covering Cellular Senescence in Aging: Molecular Basis, Implications and Therapeutic Interventions, Mitochondria-associated Cellular Senescence Mechanisms: Biochemical and Pharmacological Perspectives, Mitochondria in cell senescence: Friend or Foe?, The role of mitochondria and mitophagy in cell senescence, Small molecules targeting mitochondrial dysfunction for potential senotheraputics, Senolytic and senomorphic interventions to defy senescence-associated mitochondrial dysfunction, Mitochondrial targeting peptides and probes, Mitochondria-derived peptides in healthy ageing and therapy of age-related diseases, and much more. Other sections cover Targeting of mitostasis-proteostasis axis by antioxidant polysaccharides in neurodegeneration, Phytotherapeutic targeting of the mitochondria in neurodegenerative disorders, Melatonin as mitochondria-targeted drugs, Coenzyme Q-related compounds to maintain healthy mitochondria during aging, Changing ROS, NAD and AMP: a path to longevity via mitochondrial therapeutics, and more. - Updates on how mitochondria are closely related to the survival of senescent cells using either mitochondria-targeted senolytic or redox modulator senomorphic strategies - Differentiates itself from other books with its multidisciplinary perspectives and multidimensional clinical approaches - Offers a novel perspective on both the basic and clinical sciences for a wide group of well-established academicians, students and researchers in medicinal chemistry, gerontology, geriatrics, oncology, pharmacology, pathology, bioinformatics, sports science and nutritional sciences

Explore the fascinating interplay between chemical elements and biological life with Biological and Medical Significance of Chemical Elements. This comprehensive handbook delves into the pivotal role that various chemical elements from the periodic table play in the intricate web of life processes. Discover how these elements impact human health, influence drug development, and contribute to essential biological pathways.Key Features:- Provides information on the occurrence and classification of chemical elements in nature- Explains the biological functions of elements from different main groups (including s-, p-, d- and f-block elements)- Includes information about the biomedical significance of platinum metals, lanthanides, and actinides- Includes a list of references for further reading This book serves as an indispensable resource for anyone interested in the medical biochemistry of chemical elements.

Turmeric belongs to the family Zingiberaceae and is a yellow spice of high economic importance due to its medicinal value. Cultivated in tropical and sub-tropical regions around the world, it is used extensively as a colouring, flavouring and preserving agent. In recent years, several drugs derived from natural products have been developed and current drug research is actively investigating the possible therapeutic roles of many Ayurvedic medicines, most notable among those being examined is turmeric. The wide range of pharmacological activities attributed to turmeric come mainly from curcuminoids and two related compounds, demethoxycurcumin and bisdemethoxycurcumin. This comprehensive book brings together the research carried out on constituents obtained from turmeric and highlights their chemical and biological activities. Comprising 17 chapters, each written by experts in their respective field and curated by authorities, it will be invaluable to all those who are involved in the production, processing, marketing, and the use of turmeric. Appealing to researchers and professionals in natural products, nutraceuticals and food chemists, this book is exposing some of the myths and showing areas for possible future use.

Signaling pathways is a comprehensive mechanism by which all cellular organisms communicate internally and externally with their microenvironment. This is a highly complex and exact process. Errors in signaling pathways and in the processing of cellular information are known to be responsible for the majority of diseases including cancer, inflammatory and neurological disorders. Knowledge gained from the better understanding of signaling pathways will help in elucidating disease processes and will assist in development and design of novel targeted treatment therapies to combat human diseases and disorders. Heat shock proteins (HSP) are uniquely involved in a number of critical signaling pathways. Key basic and clinical research laboratories from major universities, academic medical hospitals, biotechnology and pharmaceutical laboratories around the world have contributed chapters that review present research activity and importantly project the field into the future. The book is a must read for graduate students. medical students, basic science researchers and postdoctoral scholars in the fields of Translational Medicine, Clinical Research, Human Physiology, Biotechnology, Cell & Molecular Medicine, Pharmaceutical Scientists and Researchers involved in Drug Discovery.

Gasotransmitters are gas molecules produced endogenously in prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells for signalling purposes. This book provides, for the first time, a comprehensive description and systematic look at all gasotransmitters, established or proposed, since their detection in 2002. The content and scope covers the production, metabolism, and signalling roles of gasotransmitters. Conceptual advances, scientific discoveries and newly developed techniques described in this book influence our understanding of fundamental molecular and cellular events in biology and medicine. This book serves as the state-of-the-art book for undergraduate and graduate students as well as post-doctoral fellows in biomedical disciplines and toxicologists studying the toxic mechanisms of gasotransmitters in the environment. It will also be welcomed by researchers in university and research institutes, government agencies, pharmaceutical and medical instrument industry, and clinical practice.

Nitric Oxide and Other Small Signalling Molecules, Volume 73, the latest release in the Advances in Microbial Physiology series, continues the long tradition of topical, important, cutting-edge reviews in microbiology. The book contains updates in the field, with comprehensive chapters covering Nitric Oxide and Urinary Pathogens, Antibiotic Lethality and pH Homeostasis, Antimicrobial Strategies for Avian Pathogens and Bioactive Peptides from Marine Sources for Biotechnological Applications, and more. - Contains contributions from leading authorities in microbial physiology - Informs and updates on all the latest developments in the field of microbial physiology

This book comprehensively reviews the state-of-the-art strategies developed for protein-protein interaction (PPI) inhibitors, and highlights the success stories in new drug discovery and development. Consisting of two parts with twelve chapters, it demonstrates the design strategies and case studies of small molecule PPI inhibitors. The first part discusses various discovery strategies for small molecule PPI inhibitors, such as high throughput screening, hot spot-based design, computational approaches, and fragment-based design. The second part presents recent advances in small molecule inhibitors, focusing on clinical candidates and new PPI targets. This book has broad appeal and is of significant interest to the pharmaceutical science and medicinal chemistry communities.

Taurine 10 contains original articles and critical reviews based on the oral and poster presentations of XX International Taurine Meeting held in Seoul, Korea in May 2016. The purpose of the book is to present current ideas, new avenues and research regarding biological functions and clinical applications of taurine and taurine derivatives. It focuses on all aspects of taurine research including the cardiovascular system, the immune system, diabetes, the central nervous system, endocrine system and the role of taurine supplements in nutrition. It also includes presentations of novel animal experimental models using Cdo1 and CSAD knock-out mice.

Advances in Microbial Physiology, Volume 71, continues the long tradition of topical, important, cutting-edge reviews in microbiology. The book contains updates in the field, with comprehensive chapters covering The Microbiology of Ruthenium Complexes, The role of plant growth-promoting bacteria in metal phytoremediation, the Mechanism and Role of Globin Coupled Sensor Signaling, Cytochrome bd and gaseous ligands in bacterial physiology, and Haem-Based Sensors of O2: Lessons and Perspectives. - Contains contributions from leading authorities in microbial physiology - Informs and updates on all the latest developments in the field of microbial physiology

Liver Pathophysiology: Therapies and Antioxidants is a complete volume on morphology, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology and treatment of liver diseases. It uses an integral approach towards the role of free radicals in the pathogenesis of hepatic injury, and how their deleterious effects may be abrogated by the use of antioxidants. Written by the most prominent authors in the field, this book will be of use to basic and clinical scientists and clinicians working in the biological sciences, especially those dedicated to the study and treatment of liver pathologies. - Presents the most recent advances in hepatology, with a special focus on the role of oxidative stress in liver injury. - Provides in vivo and in vitro models to study human liver pathology. - Explains the beneficial effects of antioxidants on liver diseases. - Contains the most recent and modern treatments of hepatic pathologies, including, but not limited to, stem cells repopulation, gene therapy and liver transplantation.

Polyphenolic compounds are part of a division of secondary metabolites with high antioxidant capacity, found naturally in most edible and inedible plants. These compounds are responsible for pigmentation and plants defense of pathogens agents. Its molecular structure includes phenolic hydroxyl groups and aromatic rings. Polyphenols are increasingly studied because of the benefits to human health, introducing the ability to eliminate free radicals generated by oxidation, reducing risk of cancer, anti-aging, anti-diabetic, among others. This book provides new research on food sources of polyphenolic compounds, and their biochemistry and health benefits.

Bio-Inorganic compounds are successfully applied as therapeutic agents since decades. Thus, scientist designed new metal complexes bearing biomolecules as ligands, investigating their potential as bioactive and therapeutic agents. This book presents a comprehensive overview on materials design, substance classes and their characterization. This book is compiled for scientists interested in medical application of bioinspired materials.

Handbook of Hormones: Comparative Endocrinology for Basic and Clinical Research collates fundamental information about the structure and function of hormones from basic biology to clinical use. The handbook offers a rapid way to obtain specific facts about the chemical and molecular characteristics of hormones, their receptors and signalling pathways, and the biological activities they regulate. The evolution of hormones and gene families is also covered both in the text and in online ancillaries. Users will find simple and visual ways to learn key molecular information. Chapters and online ancillary resources integrate additional sections, providing a comparative molecular, functional, and evolutionary consideration. - Provides the only single resource available with concise, yet informative descriptions of hormones in vertebrates, invertebrates, and plants - Presents hormones in groups according to their origin, so that readers can easily understand their inter-relation - Includes comparative information on the structures and functions of hormones enabling readers to understand both general and specific actions in and across species - Ancillary website hosts additional information, including sequence data, comparative data, figures, and tables

This essential volume comprehensively discusses redox-active therapeutics, focusing particularly on their molecular design, mechanistic, pharmacological and medicinal aspects. The first section of the book describes the basic aspects of the chemistry and biology of redox-active drugs and includes a brief overview of the redox-based pathways involved in cancer and the medical aspects of redox-active drugs, assuming little in the way of prior knowledge. Subsequent sections and chapters describe more specialized aspects of central nervous system injuries, neurodegenerative diseases, pain, radiation injury and radioprotection (such as of brain, lungs, head and neck and erectile function) and neglected diseases (e.g., leishmaniasis). It encompasses several major classes of redox-active experimental therapeutics, which include porphyrins, salens, nitrones, and most notably metal-containing (e.g., Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Sb) drugs as either single compounds or formulations with nanomaterials and quantum dots. Numerous illustrations, tables and figures enhance and complement the text; extensive references to relevant literature are also included. Redox-Active Therapeutics is an invaluable addition to Springer's Oxidative Stress in Applied Basic Research and Clinical Practice series. It is essential reading for researchers, clinicians and graduate students interested in understanding and exploring the Redoxome—the organism redox network—as an emerging frontier in drug design, redox biology and medicine.

This book describes the three gasotransmitters nitric oxide (NO), hydrogen sulphide (H2S) and carbon monoxide (CO) and their function as intracellular signalling molecules in plants. Common properties are shared by NO, H2S and CO: they are beneficial at low concentrations but hazardous in higher amounts; they are small molecules of gas; they can freely cross cell membranes; their effects do not rely on receptors; they are generated enzymatically and their production is regulated; their functions can be mimicked by exogenous application; and their cellular effects may or may not be mediated by second messengers, but have specific cellular and molecular targets.In plants, many aspects of the biology of gasotransmitters remain completely unknown and generate intriguing questions, which will be discussed in this book.

The Chemistry and Biology of Nitroxyl (HNO) provides first-of-its-kind coverage of the intriguing biologically active molecule called nitroxyl, or azanone per IUPAC nomenclature, which has been traditionally elusive due to its intrinsically high reactivity. This useful resource provides the scientific basis to understand the chemistry, biology, and technical aspects needed to deal with HNO. Building on two decades of nitric oxide and nitroxyl research, the editors and authors have created an indispensable guide for investigators across a wide variety of areas of chemistry (inorganic, organic, organometallic, biochemistry, physical, and analytical); biology (molecular, cellular, physiological, and enzymology); pharmacy; and medicine. This book begins by exploring the unique molecule's structure and reactivity, including important reactions with small molecules, thiols, porphyrins, and key proteins, before discussing chemical and biological sources of nitroxyl. Advanced chapters discuss methods for both trapping and detecting nitroxyl by spectroscopy, electrochemistry, and fluorescent inorganic cellular probing. Expanding on the compound's foundational chemistry, this book then explores its molecular physiology to offer insight into its biological implications, pharmacological effects, and practical issues. - Presents the first book on HNO (nitroxyl or azanone), an increasingly important molecule in biochemistry and pharmaceutical research - Provides a valuable coverage of HNO's chemical structure and significant reactions, including practical guidance on working with this highly reactive molecule - Contains high quality content from recognized experts in both industry and academia

Inorganic and Organometallic Transition Metal Complexes with Biological Molecules and Living Cells provides a complete overview of this important research area that is perfect for both newcomers and expert researchers in the field. Through concise chapters written and edited by esteemed experts, this book brings together a comprehensive treatment of the area previously only available through scattered, lengthy review articles in the literature. Advanced topics of research are covered, with particular focus on recent advances in the biological applications of transition metal complexes, including inorganic medicine, enzyme inhibitors, antiparasital agents, and biological imaging reagents. - Geared toward researchers and students who seek an introductory overview of the field, as well as researchers working in advanced areas - Focuses on the interactions of inorganic and organometallic transition metal complexes with biological molecules and live cells - Foscuses on the fundamentals and their potential therapeutic and diagnostic applications - Covers recent biological applications of transition metal complexes, such as anticancer drugs, enzyme inhibitors, bioconjugation agents, chemical biology tools, and bioimaging reagents

Heat Shock Proteins and Plants provides the most up-to-date and concise reviews and progress on the role of heat shock proteins in plant biology, structure and function and is subdivided into chapters focused on Small Plant HSPs (Part I), Larger Plant HSPs (Part II) and HSPs for Therapeutic Gain (Part III). This book is written by eminent leaders and experts from around the world and is an important reference book and a must-read for undergraduate, postgraduate students and researchers in the fields of Agriculture, Botany, Crop Research, Plant Genetics and Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Drug Development and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Free Radicals in Biology and Medicine has become a classic text in the field of free radical and antioxidant research. Now in its fifth edition, the book has been comprehensively rewritten and updated whilst maintaining the clarity of its predecessors. Two new chapters discuss'in vivo'and'dietary'antioxidants, the first emphasising the role of peroxiredoxins and integrated defence mechanisms which allow useful roles for ROS, and the second containing new information on the role of fruits, vegetables, and vitamins in health and disease. This new edition also contains expanded coverage of the mechanisms of oxidative damage to lipids, DNA, and proteins (and the repair of such damage), and the roles played by reactive species in signal transduction, cell survival, death, human reproduction, defence mechanisms of animals and plants against pathogens, and other important biological events. The methodologies available to measure reactive species and oxidative damage (and their potential pitfalls) have been fully updated, as have the topics of phagocyte ROS production, NADPH oxidase enzymes, and toxicology. There is a detailed and critical evaluation of the role of free radicals and other reactive species in human diseases, especially cancer, cardiovascular, chronic inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. New aspects of ageing are discussed in the context of the free radical theory of ageing. This book is recommended as a comprehensive introduction to the field for students, educators, clinicians, and researchers. It will also be an invaluable companion to all those interested in the role of free radicals in the life and biomedical sciences.

These new volumes of Methods in Enzymology (554 and 555) on Hydrogen Sulfide Signaling continue the legacy established by previous volumes on another gasotransmitter, nitric oxide (Methods in Enzymology volumes 359, 396, 440, and 441), with quality chapters authored by leaders in the field of hydrogen sulfide research. These volumes of Methods in Enzymology were designed as a compendium for hydrogen sulfide detection methods, the pharmacological activity of hydrogen sulfide donors, the redox biochemistry of hydrogen sulfide and its metabolism in mammalian tissues, the mechanisms inherent in hydrogen sulfide cell signaling and transcriptional pathways, and cell signaling in specific systems, such as cardiovascular and nervous system as well as its function in inflammatory responses. Two chapters are also devoted to hydrogen sulfide in plants and a newcomer, molecular hydrogen, its function as a novel antioxidant. - Continues the legacy of this premier serial with quality chapters on hydrogen sulfide research authored by leaders in the field - Covers conventional and new hydrogen sulfide detection methods - Covers the pharmacological activity of hydrogen sulfide donors - Contains chapters on important topics on hydrogen sulfide modulation of cell signaling and transcriptional pathways, and the role of hydrogen sulfide in the cardiovascular and nervous systems and in inflammation

Polyphenols in Human Health and Disease documents antioxidant actions of polyphenols in protection of cells and cell organelles, critical for understanding their health-promoting actions to help the dietary supplement industry. The book begins by describing the fundamentals of absorption, metabolism and bioavailability of polyphenols, as well as the effect of microbes on polyphenol structure and function and toxicity. It then examines the role of polyphenols in the treatment of chronic disease, including vascular and cardiac health, obesity and diabetes therapy, cancer treatment and prevention, and more. - Explores neuronal protection by polyphenol metabolites and their application to medical care - Defines modulation of enzyme actions to help researchers see and study polyphenols'mechanisms of action, leading to clinical applications - Includes insights on polyphenols in brain and neurological functions to apply them to the wide range of aging diseases

Increasing the potency of therapeutic compounds, while limiting side-effects, is a common goal in medicinal chemistry. Ligands that effectively bind metal ions and also include specific features to enhance targeting, reporting, and overall efficacy are driving innovation in areas of disease diagnosis and therapy. Ligand Design in Medicinal Inorganic Chemistry presents the state-of-the-art in ligand design for medicinal inorganic chemistry applications. Each individual chapter describes and explores the application of compounds that either target a disease site, or are activated by a disease-specific biological process. Ligand design is discussed in the following areas: Platinum, Ruthenium, and Gold-containing anticancer agents Emissive metal-based optical probes Metal-based antimalarial agents Metal overload disorders Modulation of metal-protein interactions in neurodegenerative diseases Photoactivatable metal complexes and their use in biology and medicine Radiodiagnostic agents and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) agents Carbohydrate-containing ligands and Schiff-base ligands in Medicinal Inorganic Chemistry Metalloprotein inhibitors Ligand Design in Medicinal Inorganic Chemistry provides graduate students, industrial chemists and academic researchers with a launching pad for new research in medicinal chemistry.

Understanding, identifying and influencing the biological systems are the primary objectives of chemical biology. From this perspective, metal complexes have always been of great assistance to chemical biologists, for example, in structural identification and purification of essential biomolecules, for visualizing cellular organelles or to inhibit specific enzymes. This inorganic side of chemical biology, which continues to receive considerable attention, is referred to as inorganic chemical biology. Inorganic Chemical Biology: Principles, Techniques and Applications provides a comprehensive overview of the current and emerging role of metal complexes in chemical biology. Throughout all of the chapters there is a strong emphasis on fundamental theoretical chemistry and experiments that have been carried out in living cells or organisms. Outlooks for the future applications of metal complexes in chemical biology are also discussed. Topics covered include: • Metal complexes as tools for structural biology • IMAC, AAS, XRF and MS as detection techniques for metals in chemical biology • Cell and organism imaging and probing DNA using metal and metal carbonyl complexes • Detection of metal ions, anions and small molecules using metal complexes • Photo-release of metal ions in living cells • Metal complexes as enzyme inhibitors and catalysts in living cells Written by a team of international experts, Inorganic Chemical Biology: Principles, Techniques and Applications is a must-have for bioinorganic, bioorganometallic and medicinal chemists as well as chemical biologists working in both academia and industry.

The series Structure and Bonding publishes critical reviews on topics of research concerned with chemical structure and bonding. The scope of the series spans the entire Periodic Table and addresses structure and bonding issues associated with all of the elements. It also focuses attention on new and developing areas of modern structural and theoretical chemistry such as nanostructures, molecular electronics, designed molecular solids, surfaces, metal clusters and supramolecular structures. Physical and spectroscopic techniques used to determine, examine and model structures fall within the purview of Structure and Bonding to the extent that the focus is on the scientific results obtained and not on specialist information concerning the techniques themselves. Issues associated with the development of bonding models and generalizations that illuminate the reactivity pathways and rates of chemical processes are also relevant.The individual volumes in the series are thematic. The goal of each volume is to give the reader, whether at a university or in industry, a comprehensive overview of an area where new insights are emerging that are of interest to a larger scientific audience. Thus each review within the volume critically surveys one aspect of that topic and places it within the context of the volume as a whole. The most significant developments of the last 5 to 10 years should be presented using selected examples to illustrate the principles discussed. A description of the physical basis of the experimental techniques that have been used to provide the primary data may also be appropriate, if it has not been covered in detail elsewhere. The coverage need not be exhaustive in data, but should rather be conceptual, concentrating on the new principles being developed that will allow the reader, who is not a specialist in the area covered, to understand the data presented. Discussion of possible future research directions in the area is welcomed. Review articles for the individual volumes are invited by the volume editors.Readership: research scientists at universities or in industry, graduate studentsSpecial offer for all customers who have a standing order to the print version of Structure and Bonding, we offer free access to the electronic volumes of the Series published in the current year via SpringerLink.

This is the sixth set of Handbook of Porphyrin Science.This 5-volume set provides a comprehensive review of the most up-to-date research on porphyrin, heme and chlorophyll biochemistry, as well as applications to biomedicine and bio-inspired energy. In-depth coverage of topics along with perspectives on outstanding questions and future research directions by the authors make these volumes an essential resource for both beginning and advanced investigators in the field. It is also suitable for non-experts in porphyrin, who wish to have an overview of the fundamental discoveries and breakthroughs in the porphyrin arena related to medicine and bio-inspired energy.Bringing together the biochemistry of porphyrin-binding proteins and their clinical relevance and applications to medicine and renewable energy, this set provides readers with an integrated coverage of porphyrin biochemistry. At the same time, it challenges readers with new questions and perspectives of research regarding the role of porphyrin biochemistry in the future of medicine and renewable energy.

This book explores the role calcium signaling plays in cellular responses in almost all types of cells including airway smooth muscle cells. This universal signaling may result from extracellular calcium influx and/or intracellular calcium release, which are precisely controlled and regulated by ion channels, exchangers and/or transporters on the plasmalemmal or sarcoplasmic reticulum membrane. First, several chapters detail calcium release channels (ryanodine receptors and inositol trisphosphate receptors), voltage-dependent potassium channels, transient receptor potential channels, Orai channels, calcium-activated potassium channels, and calcium-activated chloride channels. Well-characterized sodium-calcium exchangers, voltage-dependent calcium channels, and calcium pumps are described also in depth over many chapters. Ca2+ signaling can be expressed in Ca2+ sparks, waves, oscillations, and global changes in intracellular Ca2+ concentration. Calcium in subcellular compartments (cytosol, sarcoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria, and caveolae) also exhibit dynamic crosstalk. Many molecules including FK506 binding proteins, cyclic adenosine diphosphate ribose, reactive oxygen species, RhoA kinases, caveolin and integrins can modify and induce spatial, temporal and compartmental variations of calcium signaling. In addition, calcium signaling can exhibit sex hormone- and age-dependent changes. A number of chapters are dedicated to covering these diverse formats, spatiotemporal characteristics, multifaceted network and mathematical modeling of Ca2+ signaling. Neurotransmitters, hormones, growth factors, inflammatory cytokines, and other stimuli may lead to multiple cellular responses by inducing Ca2+ signaling in airway smooth muscle cells. Increasing evidence suggests that Ca2+ pumps and canonical transient receptor potential channels are essential for airway smooth muscle remodeling. Accordingly, several chapters summarize recent advances in the studies of the key role of calcium signaling in physiological cellular responses as well as the development of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other respiratory disorders.

Hypoxia remains a constant threat throughout life. It is for this reason that the International Hypoxia Society strives to maintain a near quarter century tradition of presenting a stimulating blend of clinical and basic science discussions. International experts from many fields have focused on the state-of-the-art discoveries in normal and pathophysiological responses to hypoxia. Topics in this volume include gene-environment interactions, a theme developed in both a clinical context regarding exercise and hypoxia, as well as in native populations living in high altitudes. Furthermore, experts in the field have combined topics such as skeletal muscle angiogenesis and hypoxia, high altitude pulmonary edema, new insights into the biology of the erythropoietin receptor, and the latest advances in cardiorespiratory control in hypoxia. This volume explores the fields of anatomy, cardiology, biological transport, and biomedical engineering among many others.

African Ethnobotany in the Americas provides the first comprehensive examination of ethnobotanical knowledge and skills among the African Diaspora in the Americas. Leading scholars on the subject explore the complex relationship between plant use and meaning among the descendants of Africans in the New World. With the aid of archival and field research carried out in North America, South America, and the Caribbean, contributors explore the historical, environmental, and political-ecological factors that facilitated/hindered transatlantic ethnobotanical diffusion; the role of Africans as active agents of plant and plant knowledge transfer during the period of plantation slavery in the Americas; the significance of cultural resistance in refining and redefining plant-based traditions; the principal categories of plant use that resulted; the exchange of knowledge among Amerindian, European and other African peoples; and the changing significance of African-American ethnobotanical traditions in the 21st century. Bolstered by abundant visual content and contributions from renowned experts in the field, African Ethnobotany in the Americas is an invaluable resource for students, scientists, and researchers in the field of ethnobotany and African Diaspora studies.

''In addition to a wide variety of traditional oxygen transport topics, particular areas have been selected for emphasis at the 1997 meeting, which are: Molecular and genetic techniques to study oxygen transport in health and disease Angiogenesis during hypoxia, ischemia, and development Physiological mechanisms of oxygen sensing Physiological fluctuations of cerebral blood flow, metabolism and oxygenation Near infrared and phsophorescence techniques for the assessment of blood and tissue oxygenation Advances in biotechnology of anticoagulants and blood substitutes.''(excerpted from the Preface).

Since its inception in 1973, The International Society on Oxygen Transport to Tissue (ISOTT) has provided a unique forum to facilitate and encourage scientific interaction and debate. Welcoming scientists and clinicians from a broad spectrum of disciplines, each with their own particular skills and expertise, ISOTT unites them under the common theme of oxygen transport. The successful blend of scientific presentations and informal discussion which characterizes ISOTT is epitomized best by the many fundamental discoveries and technical advancements which it has spawned. The breadth and strengths of The Society's scientific base promotes the rapid progression of ideas from theoretical concepts to rigorous scientific testing and often, ultimately to the clinical arena. Each publication of the ISOTT proceedings has been recognized by Science Citation Index listing and the papers frequently establish scientific precedents and become considered as standard works in their respective fields. The 21st ISOTT Meeting was held in San Diego from August 14th through August 18th, 1993. The San Diego Meeting attracted about 150 registrants and 40 accompanying persons. Ten state-of-the-art lectures were presented by international experts in ~ transport and there were in addition two symposia -one dealing with assessment of tissue hypoxia and the other with functional heterogeneity in different organ systems. There were 100 free communications, consisting of posters accompanied by an abbreviated oral summary. All manuscripts were reviewed by the Editors for form and content, but as is customary for the ISOTT proceedings, rigorous scientific peer review was not undertaken.

Since the epochal discovery of the radical and highly toxic gas nitric oxide (NO) as a signaling molecule, two other no less toxic gases – carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) – have been found to also be involved in a plethora of physiological and pathophysiological functions. The gases termed gasotransmitters play an increasingly important role in understanding how signalling into and between cells is modulated and fine-tuned. The advent of gasotransmitters has profoundly changed our way of thinking about biosynthesis, liberation, storage and action mechanisms in cellular signaling. In recent years an impressive amount of new data, distributed throughout the existing literature, has been generated. For this book the editors have recruited distinguished colleagues in the field to summarize and review important biological, pharmacological and medical functions and their implications, as well as methods for the detection of gasotransmitters.

Proceedings of the Third International Symposium on Lipid Metabolism in the Normoxic and Ischemic Heart, September 9 & 10, 1991, Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Basic Neurochemistry, Eighth Edition, is the updated version of the outstanding and comprehensive classic text on neurochemistry. For more than forty years, this text has been the worldwide standard for information on the biochemistry of the nervous system, serving as a resource for postgraduate trainees and teachers in neurology, psychiatry, and basic neuroscience, as well as for medical, graduate, and postgraduate students and instructors in the neurosciences. The text has evolved, as intended, with the science. This new edition continues to cover the basics of neurochemistry as in the earlier editions, along with expanded and additional coverage of new research from intracellular trafficking, stem cells, adult neurogenesis, regeneration, and lipid messengers. It contains expanded coverage of all major neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders, including the neurochemistry of addiction, pain, and hearing and balance; the neurobiology of learning and memory; sleep; myelin structure, development, and disease; autism; and neuroimmunology. Completely updated text with new authors and material, and many entirely new chapters Over 400 fully revised figures in splendid color 61 chapters covering the range of cellular, molecular and medical neuroscience Translational science boxes emphasizing the connections between basic and clinical neuroscience Companion website at http://elsevierdirect.com/companions/9780123749475

In the last few years, derivatives of L-carnitine, such as acetyl-L-carnitine and propionyl-L-carnitine, have been made available to doctors for treatment of specific pathologies. The effects of this family of related carnitine compounds on cardiovascular systems and diseases constitute the major issue addressed in this volume. Although several books on carnitine have been published, a treatise focusing on experimental and clinical aspects of the carnitine family and cardiovascular diseases was lacking. The present book provides the reader with a concise update in this field. The information collected from experts on various aspects of the fascinating compound, carnitine, will be useful for both clinicians and basic scientists.

This invaluable book provides the first description of the diverse and fascinating functions of heme in life processes for a broad audience. It begins with an introduction to the intricate chemical properties of heme and the history of early observations of human diseases associated with heme. It then proceeds to describe the versatile roles of heme in controlling diverse molecular and cellular processes germane to human life and disease processes. Finally, an up-to-date review of human diseases associated with heme synthesis and application of heme synthesis in photodynamic therapy in cancer treatment is presented.Heme biology is unified and logical in presentation. It is well suited for students and professionals in life sciences who wish to comprehend the fascinating biology of heme and its usefulness in health and diseases. It may also be used as a reference book for advanced readers and researchers who are interested in heme biology. The explanations in the book are detailed enough to capture the interest of the curious reader, and complete enough to provide the necessary information for researchers to have an in-depth molecular understanding of heme biology and further their studies in this fascinating realm.

The substantial biological importance of gaseous mediators in various physiological-pathological conditions has been realized only recently, but to date, the detailed mechanisms involved remain elusive. The publication at hand contains 16 overviews written by a panel of experts who summarize the current knowledge and provide fundamental insights into the roles of gaseous molecules in signal transduction in biological systems. The first part provides a comprehensive overview on gaseous mediators in health and disease. In the second part, the medical application of various molecules such as nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, hydrogen, acetone and phytoncide are discussed. Furthermore, articles on skin gas biology and Carbon-13 (13C), especially clinical applications of 13C-labeled substrate are included. This book provides valuable information not only for basic researchers in physiology and biochemistry, but also for gastroenterologists and clinicians who wish to learn more about the role of gaseous mediators.

There is a growing body of experimental and clinical data to suggest that the organs of the digestive system may be subjected to considerable oxidative stress associated with acute and chronic inflammation. Although inflammation and ischemia play a key role in producing oxygen-derived free radicals in the digestive tract, the contribution of other factors, such as transition metal imbalances, lipid and glucose metabolic disturbance, and the interaction with gaseous molecules including nitric oxide and carbon monoxide, has also been suggested. Recent studies have demonstrated that several biomarkers indicating oxidative stress-mediated damage may help in monitoring the degree of disease and planning the design of new therapeutic strategies. In addition, recent advances in ‘omics'research (genomics, proteomics, metabolomics, etc.) may bring a breakthrough in the field of gastroenterology and hepatology: Several molecular targets for oxidative stress have been presented by the ‘omics'. This book includes up-to-date reviews on the relevant issues in free radical biology in a combination with expert basic research reviews and clinical aspects in gastroenterology and hepatology. Providing information about new molecular targets for the treatment or prevention of digestive diseases, this book should be read by clinical and basic researchers in gastroenterology and hepatology.

Human blood performs many important functions including defence against disease and transport of biomolecules, but perhaps the most important is to carry oxygen – the fundamental biochemical fuel - and other blood gases around the cardiovascular system. Traditional therapies for the impairment of this function, or the rapid replacement of lost blood, have centred around blood transfusions. However scientists are developing chemicals (oxygen therapeutics, or “blood substitutes”) which have the same oxygen-carrying capability as blood and can be used as replacements for blood transfusion or to treat diseases where oxygen transport is impaired. Chemistry and Biochemistry of Oxygen Therapeutics: From Transfusion to Artificial Blood links the underlying biochemical principles of the field with chemical and biotechnological innovations and pre-clinical development. The first part of the book deals with the chemistry, biochemistry, physiology and toxicity of oxygen, including chapters on hemoglobin reactivity and regulation; the major cellular and physiological control mechanisms of blood flow and oxygen delivery; hemoglobin and myoglobin; nitric oxide and oxygen; and the role of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in ischemia/reperfusion Injury. The book then discusses medical needs for oxygen supply, including acute traumatic hemorrhage and anemia; diagnosis and treatment of haemorrhages in'non-surgical'patients; management of perioperative bleeding; oxygenation in the preterm neonate; ischemia normobaric and hyperbaric oxygen therapy for ischemic stroke and other neurological conditions; and transfusion therapy in β thalassemia and sickle cell disease Finally “old”and new strategies for oxygen supply are described. These include the political, administrative and logistic issues surrounding transfusion; conscientious objection in patient blood management; causes and consequences of red cell incompatibility; biochemistry of red blood cell storage; proteomic investigations on stored red blood cells; red blood cells from stem cells; the universal red blood cell; allosteric effectors of hemoglobin; hemoglobin-based oxygen carriers; oxygen delivery by natural and artificial oxygen carriers; cross-linked and polymerized hemoglobins as potential blood substitutes; design of novel pegylated hemoglobins as oxygen carrying plasma expanders; hb octamers by introduction of surface cysteines; hemoglobin-vesicles as a cellular type hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier; animal models and oxidative biomarkers to evaluate pre-clinical safety of extracellular hemoglobins; and academia – industry collaboration in blood substitute development. Chemistry and Biochemistry of Oxygen Therapeutics: From Transfusion to Artificial Blood is an essential reference for clinicians, haematologists, medicinal chemists, biochemists, molecular biologists, biotechnologists and blood substitute researchers.

Nitric oxide (NO) is a gas naturally found in the body that conveys information between cells. In the last decade researchers have found that NO is a signaling molecule of key importance for the cardiovascular system, regulating blood pressure and blood flow to different organs. In addition, discoveries surrounding nitric oxide's role as a principal neurotransmitter moderating erectile function, a pathophysiological negotiator and messenger in inflammation, and a weapon against infections have increased research attention across the fields of biochemistry, chemistry, molecular biology, gene therapy, cell biology, immunology, pharmacology, neuroscience, and physiology. - Edited by Nobel Laureate Louis J. Ignarro - Up-to-date therapeutic implications of nitric oxide research - Authored by world experts on nitric oxide - Detailed research of the biochemistry and synthesis of nitric oxide

Many organisms have evolved the ability to enter into and revive from a dormant state. They can survive for long periods in this state (often even months to years), yet can become responsive again within minutes or hours. This is often, but not necessarily, associated with desiccation. Preserving one's body and reviving it in future generations is a dream of mankind. To date, however, we have failed to learn how cells, tissues or entire organisms can be made dormant or be effectively revived at ambient temperatures. In this book studies on organisms, ranging from aquatic cyanobacteria that produce akinetes to hibernating mammals, are presented, and reveal common but also divergent physiological and molecular pathways for surviving in a dormant form or for tolerating harsh environments. Attempting to learn the functions associated with dormancy and how they are regulated is one of the great future challenges. Its relevance to the preservation of cells and tissues is one of the key concerns of this book.

Considerable progress has been made in our healthcare system, in particular with respect to sensitive diagnostic tools, reagents and very effective and precise drugs. On the other hand, high-throughput screening technology can screen vast numbers of compounds against an array of targets in a very short time, and leads thus - tained can be further explored. In developing countries, the exploding population exerts pressure not only on natural resources but also on the human population - self, whose members strive to become successful and advance in society. This leads to increased blood pressure, anxiety, obesity-associated lipid disorders, cardiov- cular diseases and diabetes. Most of these diseases result in disturbed family life, including sexual behaviour. Despite technological developments, herbal drugs still occupy a preferential place in a majority of the population in the Third World and terminal patients in the West. Herbal drugs, in addition to being cost effective and easily accessible, have been used since time immemorial and have passed the test of time without having any side effects. The multitarget effects of herbs (holistic approaches) are the fun- mental basis of their utilization. This approach is already used in traditional systems of medicine like Ayurveda, which has become more popular in the West in recent years. However, the integration of modern science with traditional uses of herbal drugs is of the utmost importance if ones wishes to use ancient knowledge for the betterment of humanity.

Taurine (2-aminoethanesulfonic acid) is an enigmatic compound abounding in animal tissues. It is present at relatively high concentrations in all electrically excitable tissues such as brain, sensory organs, heart, and muscle, and in certain endocrine glands. Some of its physiological functions are already established, for example as an essential nutrient during development and as a neuromodulator or osmolyte, but the cellular mechanisms are still mostly a matter of conjecture. Moreover, there are a number of other putative functions of taurine less well known at present. Taurine 7 contains the proceedings of the 16th International Taurine Meeting. This meeting is a multidisciplinary symposium, with participants presenting different fields of biological science. This volume focuses on all aspects of taurine research from immunology and its effect on health to chemistry and biochemistry, including future clinical applications.

This is not a book on NO biology, nor about hemoglobin, nor about heme-based sensors per se. Of course, it covers all these topics and more, but above all, it aims at providing a truly multidisciplinary perspective of heme-diatomic interactions. The overarching goal is to build bridges among disciplines, to bring about a meeting of minds. The contributors to this book hail from diverse university departments and disciplines – chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, zoology, physics, medicine and surgery, bringing with them very different views of heme-diatomic interactions. The hope is that the juxtaposition of this diversity will lead to increased exchanges of ideas, approaches, and techniques across traditional disciplinary boundaries. The authors represent a veritable Who's Who of heme protein research and include John Olson, Tom Spiro, Walter Zumft, F. Ann Walker, Teizo Kitagawa, W. Robert Scheidt, Pat Farmer, Marie-Alda Gilles-Gonzalez, and many other equally distinguished scientists. - Extremely distinguished list of authors - Multidisciplinary character – equally suitable for chemists and biochemists - Covers the hottest topics in heme protein research: sensors, NO biology, new roles of hemoglobin, etc.

This book presents new and important research in the field of heat shock proteins (HSP) which are groups of proteins whose expression is increased when the cells are exposed to elevated temperatures or other stress. This increase in expression is transcriptionally regulated. This dramatic upregulation of the heat shock proteins induced mostly by Heat Shock Factor (HSF) is a key part of the heat shock response. The function of heat-shock proteins is similar in virtually all living organisms, from bacteria to humans.

The Nobel Prize was awarded in Physiology or Medicine in 1998 to Louis J. Ignarro, Robert F. Furchgott and Ferid Murad for demonstrating the signaling properties of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide (NO) is one of the few gaseous signaling molecules and is a key biological messenger that plays a role in many biological processes. NO research has led to new treatments for treating heart as well as lung diseases, shock and impotence. (Sildenafil, popularly known by the trade name Viagra, enhances signaling through NO pathways.) Scientists are currently testing whether NO can be used to stop the growth of cancerous tumors, since the gas can induce programmed cell death, apoptosis.This is another'must-have volume packed with robust methods from authors around the globe. Researchers interested in the detailed biochemistry of NO and its synthesis will have this indispensable volume on their shelves. - Essential resource for every laboratory involved in NO-related work - Gathers tried and tested techniques from global labs which eliminates searching through many different sources and avoids pitfalls so the same mistakes are not made over and over - Aids researchers in the design of medically important therapies for heart disease and cancer