Search

Genome Stability: DNA Repair and Recombination describes the various mechanisms of repairing DNA damage by recombination, most notably the repair of chromosomal breaks. The text presents a definitive history of the evolution of molecular models of DNA repair, emphasizing current research. The book introduces the central players in recombination. An overview of the four major pathways of homologous recombinational repair is followed by a description of the several mechanisms of nonhomologous end-joining. Designed as a textbook for advanced undergraduate and graduate students with a molecular biology and genetics background, researchers and practitioners, especially in cancer biology, will also appreciate the book as a reference.

Chapter 1 - DNA Chapter 2 - Base Pair Chapter 3 - Sense (Molecular Biology) Chapter 4 - Molecular Models of DNA Chapter 5 - DNA Microarray Chapter 6 - DNA Nanotechnology Chapter 7 - Chromatin Chapter 8 - DNA Replication Chapter 9 - DNA-Binding Protein and Genetic Recombination Chapter 10 - DNA Repair

This Handbook on cancer biology comprehensively reviews the current status of the oncobiology of major cancer types, cancer detection and treatment strategies, principles and processes of cancer drug development, and nanomedicine and other emerging cancer medicine applications to cancer diagnosis and treatment. The book also provides practical and implementable nutritional guidance in cancer prevention, treatment, and quality of life for cancer survivors. It discusses pharmacogenetics strategies for predicting cancer prognosis and treatment exposure, response, and toxicity. Further, it presents bioinformatics approaches for predicting anti-cancer drugs and drug combinations based on the multi-omic data, including transcriptomics, toxicogenomics, functional genomics, and biological networks. The Handbook also examines major factors and pathways that regulate cancer stem cells development and discusses potential targeted therapy for cancer stem cells. The book explores the application of the CRISPR/Cas9-based gene-editing technique in basic cancer research, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. This Handbook is an invaluable source for oncologists, researchers, public health specialists, epidemiologists, and policy makers.​

Thrombotic disease is a major cause of death and disablement in Western society. The most common causes is an inherited defect in one of the many genes encoding a protein which is involved in clotting, It's regulation or the process of clot dissolution, Fibrinolysis.Venous Thrombosis: from genes to clinical medicine, presents our current knowledge of potentially prothrombotic protein at modalities, together with the clear and concise views of the roles these proteins play in haemostasis, and the use of molecular techniques in the analysis and diagnosis of inherited defects. Each chapter describes a specific protein deficiency, with information on protein structure, function and biochemistry, gene structure and expression, as well as epidemiological and molecular genetic aspects of the deficiency state.This multifaceted approach aims to examine the possible causes of venous thrombosis, to explain the underlying molecular defects, and to explore the genotype-phenotype relationship in this complex multi gene disorder. The potential roles of both aesthetic interactions and environmental risk factors are also discussed. This book will be of value to haematologists, genetic counsellors and clinical geneticists.

A captivating exploration of the changing definitions of life in biologyBiological Motion studies the foundational relationship between motion and life. To answer the question, “What is Life?,” prize-winning historian of science Janina Wellmann engages in a transdisciplinary investigation of motion as the most profound definition of living existence.For decades, information and structure have dominated the historiography of the life sciences with its prevailing focus on DNA structure and function. Now more than ever, motion is a crucial theme of basic biological research. Tracing motion from Aristotle's animal soul to molecular motors, and from medical soft robotics to mathematical analysis, Wellmann locates biological motion at the intersection of knowledge domains and scientific and cultural practices. She offers signposts to mark the sites where researchers, technologies, ideas, and practices opened up new paths in the constitution of the phenomenon of motion. An ambitious rethinking of the life sciences, Biological Motion uncovers the secret life of movement and offers a new account of what it means to be alive.

This volume in the Subcellular Biochemistry (SCBI) series is a continuation of several previous volumes devoted to the structural and functional study of protein complexes. The expanding nature of this field of study, derived mainly from X-ray crystallography and electron cryomicroscopy, justifies the continuing expansion of coverage in an almost encyclopaedic manner within the SCBI series. Experienced and active researchers in the field shed light on the biology of protein complexes involved in important cellular functions from different perspectives, such as AcrAB-TolC, and CST. Other topics covered are: the Toxin-Antitoxin systems in cell survival, the role of the ATPases CueR and RUVBL1-RUVBL2 in the regulation of gene expression, complexes with multiple functions in the cell such as VCP/p97 or the Vault complex, FtsA and FtsZ in bacterial cell division, GATOR1 and GATOR2 in amino acid sensing, TRPA1 and the Serotonin Transporter in signaling, oligomeric structures in eukaryotic cells such as amyloids and invertases, among others. The book is richly illustrated, the result of an impressive integration of structural data from X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy. Functional aspects of protein-protein interactions are also featured prominently, providing a valuable contribution for researchers and scholars. Chapter 13 is available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.

This book provides an updated account of tight junctions of different epithelia and endothelia and addresses their anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, synthesis, assembly, and modulation. It also discusses the relationship between molecular structure, function, regulation, posttranslational modifications of tight junction proteins and their role in gut microbiota maintenance, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and intestinal barrier dysfunction-associated disorders important for the progression of human cancers. This book presents the pathological alterations of tight junctions at the blood-brain barrier that intensify or even initiate neurological dysfunction. Further, it reviews the significance of tight junctions and tight junction proteins in cancer development, infectious diseases, allergic reactions, and autoimmune disorders. Lastly, it highlights strategies for modulating tight junctions to enhance drug availability and organ deposition. This book is immensely useful for basic, translational, clinical, and interdisciplinary cancer researchers, practicing oncologists, and immunologists.

The roles of gene transcription in cancer have long been appreciated. However, posttranscriptional processes also contribute significantly to alterations in gene expression that lead to tumor initiation, formation, and progression.We have known for decades that alterations in the expression of key genes, such as those involved in cell proliferation, signaling, apoptosis, and immune responses, are major molecular events in cancer. This book presents our current understanding of selected posttranscriptional control mechanisms and the RNAs that they regulate. Each chapter provides an overview of a specific RNA-directed regulatory system and the RNA/protein factors involved, then discusses major findings in the field and their relationships to the development and/or treatment of cancer and associated diseases. Future questions serve to address'where do we go from here'and stimulate the reader's thinking about these important problems.This compendium of chapters from experts in the field is essential reading for anyone interested in the myriad ways that RNAs contribute to tumorigenesis: from graduate students, researchers, and clinical scientists interested in mRNA processing and translation, RNA-binding proteins that promote turnover/stability of specific mRNAs, how small noncoding RNAs control inflammation and signaling, roles of the epitranscriptome, and future and emerging RNA-based, anti-tumor therapeutics.

Encyclopedia of Cell Biology, Second Edition, a Six Volume Set, has established itself as a fundamental reference work, providing broad coverage of the field in four main sections (Molecular, Organizational, Functional, Translational and Pathological Aspects of Cell Biology). This second edition revisits and expands each section, with entries on topics not covered in the first edition, including Crispr. The whole work is updated, providing greater coverage of specialized cell function and translational applications, and putting greater emphasis on these topics in graduate/medical teaching. New overview chapters and subsections provide a simplified cell biology text that can be used by instructors. The new version includes a standard template for each chapter, making the content easier to navigate, as well as inserts and graphics which provide summaries of key points in each chapter. - Provides the authority of a team of outstanding scientists in the field - Presents a comprehensive, up-to-date resource, covering both basic and translational aspects of cell biology - Offers high quality content at a competitive market price

The Chlamydomonas Sourcebook, 3rd Edition Cell Motility and Behavior (Volume 3) The gold-standard reference introducing this multidisciplinary science, fully revised and updated with the latest discoveries Originally published as the standalone Chlamydomonas Sourcebook, then expanded as the third volume in a three-part comprehensive gold-standard reference, The Chlamydomonas Sourcebook: Cell Motility and Behavior has been fully revised and updated to include the wealth of new resources for the Chlamydomonas community. Reflecting the significant advancement in the understanding of the role of basal bodies and cilia play in human diseases, this volume employs quantitative proteomics and mass spectroscopy as well as cryo EM tomography and single particle cryo EM. Other topics such as current insights on mitosis and cytokinesis, ciliary assembly and motility, intraflagellar transport, and more help build an understanding of human diseases of the cilium. Cell Motility and Behavior presents the latest in research and best practices, making this a must-have resource for researchers and students working in plant science and photosynthesis, fertility, mammalian vision, and biochemistry; crop scientists; plant physiologists; and plant, molecular, and human disease biologists. - Provides an essential reference to a model species for the study of mechanisms of motility in free living cells - Includes methods for Chlamydomonas motility research - Includes a table listing the known proteins (with NCBI accession numbers) for each structure discussed, and the known mutations that affect each structure and process

Phospholipases in Physiology and Pathology presents a comprehensive overview on the physiology and pathology of phospholipases. This seven-volume set considers the biochemical and molecular mechanisms of normal and abnormal cell function upon dysregulation of phospholipases in different diseases. Volumes cover signal transduction mechanisms, implications in cancer, infectious diseases, neural diseases, cardiovascular diseases and other diseases, implications in inflammation, apoptosis, gene expression and non-coding RNAs, the role of natural and synthetic compounds, and stem cell therapies, nanotechnology-based therapies, and more. Together, these volumes give researchers critical insight on the mechanistic and therapeutic aspects of phospholipases. - Discusses the biochemical and molecular mechanisms of normal and abnormal cell function in different disease processes - Covers a wide range of basic and translational research appropriate for scientists engaged in studying the regulation of phospholipases from interdisciplinary perspectives - Features state-of-the-art chapter contributions from international leaders in the field

Oxygen exists in two gaseous (dioxygen and ozone) and six solid allotropic modifications. An additional allotropic modification of oxygen, the cyclooctaoxygen, was predicted to exist in 1990. The first synthesis and characterization of cyclooctaoxygen as its sodium crown complex, isolated in the form of three cytosine nucleoside hydrochloride complexes, was reported in 2016. Cyclooctaoxygen sodium was synthesized in vitro from atmospheric oxygen, or catalase effect-generated oxygen, under catalysis of cytosine nucleosides and either ninhydrin or eukaryotic low-molecular weight RNA. Thin-layer chromatographic mobility shift assays were applied on specific nucleic acids and the cyclooctaoxygen sodium complex. The cationic cyclooctaoxygen sodium complex was shown to bind to nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), to associate with single-stranded DNA and spermine phosphate, and to be essentially non-toxic to cultured mammalian cells at 0.1–1.0 mM concentration. It is postulated that cyclooctaoxygen is formed in most eukaryotic cells in vivo from dihydrogen peroxide in a catalase reaction catalysed by cytidine and RNA. A molecular biological model was deduced for a first epigenetic shell of eukaryotic in vivo DNA. This model incorporates an epigenetic explanation for the interactions of the essential micronutrient selenium (as selenite) with eukaryotic in vivo DNA. The sperminium hydrogen phosphate/cyclooctaoxygen sodium complex is calculated to cover the actively transcribed regions (2.6%) of bovine lymphocyte interphase genome. Cyclooctaoxygen seems to be naturally absent in hypoxia-induced highly condensed chromatin, taken as a model for eukaryotic metaphase/anaphase/early telophase mitotic chromatin. Hence, it is proposed that the cyclooctaoxygen sodium-bridged sperminium hydrogen phosphate and selenite coverage serves as an epigenetic shell of actively transcribed gene regions in eukaryotic'open'euchromatin DNA. It is proposed that the sperminium phosphate/cyclooctaoxygen sodium complex coverage of nucleic acids is essential to eukaryotic gene regulation and promoted proto-eukaryotic evolution. Cyclooctaoxygen sodium-bridged sperminium hydrogen selenite is calculated to serve as a marker shell component at ATG start codons in human euchromatin DNA mRNA genes, both at the translation initiation triplet and at 5′-untranslated region upstream ATGs. The total herbicide glyphosate (ROUNDUP®) and its metabolite (aminomethyl)phosphonic acid (AMPA) are proved to represent'epigenetic poisons', since they both selectively destroy the cyclooctaoxygen sodium complex. This definition is of reason, since the destruction of cyclooctaoxygen is certainly sufficient to bring the protection shield of human euchromatin into collateral epigenetic collapse. The total herbicide glyphosate and its environmental metabolite (aminomethyl)phosphonic acid (AMPA) can be associated in vitro with catalytic detoriation of eukaryotic euchromatin genetic information. The epigenetic shell of eukaryotic euchromatin is susceptible to decay induced by catalytic epigenetic poisons threatening eukaryotic genomic heritage.

This book provides a unique, comprehensive, and up-to-date overview of the various NADPH oxidases and narrates the history of their discovery, biochemical characteristics, genetics, molecular structure, and multiple functions in health and disease. It covers the subject in a manner that serves both the expert and the novice researcher in the field.The book starts with an overview of the major milestones in the discovery of the archetypical NADPH oxidase, known as cytochrome b558, and its cytosolic regulators. This is followed by personal recollections by pioneers of the field, descriptions of the work of the major figures of the past by their followers, and a rendering of the history of the discovery of the Nox family. The central section of the book consists of chapters devoted specifically to an in depth description of the individual members of the Nox family, and is followed by chapters focused on the modulators of their function. A subsequent section comprises chapters dealing with methodologies of Nox research, interaction with other proteins, and Nox inhibitors. A distinct section of the book deals with non-mammalian Noxs, from amoeba to zebrafish. Subsequent chapters focus on Nox structure, a field in which extraordinary progress was made in recent years. The volume ends with chapters on Chronic Granulomatous Disease, the consequence of Nox loss-of-function, and its treatment by gene therapy. The coda is a crystal ball perspective of the hopes for the clinical translation of basic Nox research. Written for biochemists, cell biologists, molecular biologists, and clinicians, this book is aimed at both senior scientists and young investigators in the field.

Molecular Biology: Structure and Dynamics of Genomes and Proteomes second edition illustrates the essential principles behind the transmission and expression of genetic information at the level of DNA, RNA, and proteins. Emphasis is on the experimental basis of discovery and the most recent advances in the field while presenting a rigorous, yet still concise, summary of the structural mechanisms of molecular biology. Topics new to this edition include the CRISPR-Cas gene editing system, Coronaviruses – structure, genome, vaccine and drug development, and newly recognized mechanisms for transcription termination. The text is written for advanced undergraduate or graduate-level courses in molecular biology.Key Features Highlights the experimental basis of important discoveries in molecular biology Thoroughly updated with new information on gene editing tools, viruses, and transcription mechanisms, termination and antisense Provides learning objectives for each chapter Includes a list of relevant videos from the Internet about the topics covered in the chapter

The book presents a multi-disciplinary approach to understanding mechanisms regulating the formation of mineral in vertebrate skeletal and dental tissues. The focus of the book is directed toward the mineralization process, an evolutionarily conserved system in which cells synthesize a complex and unique extracellular matrix into which mineral is deposited. Regulatory control is viewed though lenses that emphasize the genetic, physical-chemical, biochemical, structural, cellular and extracellular aspects of the mineralization process as they relate to crystal nucleation, growth and maturation. Throughout the book, defects in regulation at the genetic and transcriptional levels are linked to the numerous clinical problems associated with the mineralization of bone, cartilage, tendon, tooth, and soft tissues. The book serves as a comprehensive text for basic scientists and scholars working in the many areas that comprise hard tissue research, as well as undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and those contemplating working in the field of biomineralization or who need a review of a specific mineralization topic. The information contained in the book is relevant for clinicians and clinical scientists in the fields of orthopaedic surgery, veterinary medicine, dentistry, endocrinology, aging and genetics.

Cell-Cell Signaling in Development, Volume 150 covers new approaches and topics surrounding the diversity of animals, with recognized species now in the millions. Remarkably, the many distinct morphologies in the metazoan biosphere are generated by only a small number of genetically-encoded signaling systems that organize cells into patterned tissues, principally, the Wnt, Hedgehog, Bone morphogenic protein, fibroblast growth factor, Notch/Delta, and planar polarity systems whose roles orchestrating morphogenesis are widespread and evolutionarily conserved. Users will find the latest information on these elegant systems, along with conceptual links to signaling in plants and ideas that are emerging from recent progress. - Presents the newest information on signaling proteins of animal development - Covers the processes that make and distribute signaling proteins - Includes coverage of cell-cell interactions that pattern tissues

This important book traces the history of genetics and genomics policy in Britain. Detailing the scientific, political, and economic factors that have informed policy and the development of new health services, the book highlights the particular importance of the field of Public Health Genomics.Although focused primarily on events in Britain, the book reveals a number of globally applicable lessons. The authors explain how and why Public Health Genomics developed and the ways in which genetics and genomics have come to have a central place in many important health debates. Consideration of their ethical, social, and legal implications and ensuring that new services that are equitable, appropriate, and well-targeted will be central to effective health planning and policymaking in future.The book features: Interviews with leading individuals who were intimately involved in the development of genetics and genomics policy and Public Health Genomics Insights from experts who participated in a pair of'witness seminars'Historical analysis exploiting a wide range of primary sources Written in a clear and accessible style, this book will be of interest to those involved in the research and practice of genetics, genomics, bioethics, and population health, but also to NHS staff, policymakers, politicians, and the public. It will also be valuable supplementary reading for students of the History of Medicine and Health, Public Health, and Biomedical Sciences.

Reader-friendly Cell Biology, 4th Edition, provides a concise but comprehensive foundation for students entering research or health care career paths. Award winning illustrations help readers quickly grasp general principles. The authors have thoroughly updated this popular text to provide readers with the current understanding of the principles of normal cellular function along with examples of how molecular defects predispose to human disease. Major new themes in the 4th edition include the roles of intrinsically disordered polypeptides and phase separation in cellular functions, the influence of new molecular structures on understanding mechanisms, and the impact of exciting new methods—from single cell RNA sequencing to second generation super resolution fluorescence microscopy—on advancing our understanding. - Clear, readable explanations provide a concise story about how cells function at the molecular level. - An intuitive chapter flow starts with genome organization, gene expression, and RNA processing as a foundation for understanding every aspect of cellular function and physiology. - Brings cellular biology to life for students interested in medical science by explaining how mutations in genes can compromise virtually every cellular system and predispose to human disease. Knowledge of cell biology has led to new treatments for cancer, heart failure, cystic fibrosis, and many other diseases. - Unique illustrations with realistic proportions and relationships explain every cellular process including the assembly of SARS CoV-2, the structures attaching mitotic chromosomes to microtubules, the mechanism of DNA replication and how pumps, carriers and channels orchestrate physiological processes from synaptic transmission to cellular volume regulation. - Covers exciting breakthroughs such as SMC motor proteins actively organizing chromosomal DNA, TOR kinases regulating metabolism, new types of immunotherapy for cancer treatment, mechanisms regulating fast axonal transport and their relation to neurodegenerative diseases, how completion of DNA replication sets the time for cells to enter mitosis, how a cascade of signals specifies the site of cell division, and newly understood pathways of normal and pathological cell death.

This volume of the Encyclopedia of Complexity and Systems Science, Second Edition, focuses on current challenges in the field from materials and mechanics to applications of statistical and nonlinear physics in the life sciences. Challenges today are mostly in the realm of non-equilibrium systems, although certain equilibrium systems also present serious hurdles. Where possible, pairwise articles focus on a single topic, one from a theoretical perspective and the other from an experimental one, providing valuable insights. In other cases, theorists and experimentalists have collaborated on a single article. Coverage includes both quantum and classical systems, and emphasizes 1) mature fields that are not covered in the current specialist literature, (2) topics that fall through the cracks in disciplinary journals/books, or (3) developing areas where the knowledge base is large and robust and upon which future developments will depend. The result is an invaluable resource for condensed matter physicists, material scientists, engineers and life scientists.

Forcourses in cell biology. Connectingfundamental concepts across the world of the cellKnown for its strong biochemistry coverage and clear, easy-to-followexplanations and figures, Becker's World of the Cell provides abeautifully illustrated, up-to-date introduction to cell biology concepts,processes, and applications. Informed by years of classroom experience in thecell biology course, the text features accessible and authoritativedescriptions of all major principles, as well as unique scientific insightsinto visualization and applications of cell and molecular biology. With the 10thEdition, the authors guide students to make connections throughout cellbiology, and provide questions that encourage students to practice interpretingand analyzing data. Embedded features in Pearson eText add interactivity,walking students through key figures with narrated explanations. Personalizelearning with Mastering Biology with Pearson eTextMastering® empowers youto personalize learning and reach every student. This flexible digital platformcombines trusted content with customizable features so you can teach yourcourse your way. And with digital tools and assessments, students become activeparticipants in their learning, leading to better results. PearsoneText is an easy-to-use digital textbook available within Mastering that letsstudents read, highlight, take notes, and review key vocabulary all in oneplace. If you're not using Mastering, students can purchase Pearson eText ontheir own or you can assign it as a course to schedule readings, view studentusage analytics, and share your own notes with students.

This volume reviews the latest research on the functional implications of nuclear, chromosomal and genomic organization and architecture on cell and organismal biology, and development and progression of diseases.The architecture of the cell nucleus and non-random arrangement of chromosomes, genes, and the non-membranous nuclear bodies in the three-dimensional (3D) space alters in response to the environmental, mechanical, chemical, and temporal cues. The changes in the nuclear, chromosomal, or genomic compaction and configuration modify the gene expression program and induce or inhibit epigenetic modifications. The intrinsically programmed rearrangements of the nuclear architecture are necessary for cell differentiation, the establishment of cell fate during development and maturation of tissues and organs including the immune, muscle, and nervous systems.The non-programmed changes in the nuclear architecture can lead to fragmentation of the nucleus and instability ofthe genome and thus cause cancer. Microbial and viral infections can lead to a clustering of centromeres, telomeres and ribosomal DNA and alter the properties of the nuclear membrane, allowing large immobile macromolecules to enter the nucleus. Recent advances in next-generation sequencing technologies combined with nucleus/chromosome conformation capture, super-resolution imaging, chromosomal contact maps methods, integrative modeling, and genetic approaches, are uncovering novel features and importance of nuclear, chromosomal and genomic architecture. This book is an interesting read for cell biologists, researchers studying the structure and function of chromosomes, and anyone else who wants to get an overview of the field of nuclear, chromosomal and genomic architecture.

This book examines the technologies and processes for the development and commercial production of stem cells according to cGMP guidelines. The initial chapter of the book discusses the therapeutic potentials of stem cells for the treatment of various diseases, including degenerative disorders and genetic diseases. The book then reviews the recent developments in the cultivation of stem cells in bioreactors, including critical cultural parameters, possible bioreactor configuration and integrations of novel technologies in bioprocess developmental stages. The book also introduces microscopic, molecular, and cellular techniques for characterization of stem cells for regulatory approvals. Further, it describes optimal cell transporting conditions to maintain cell viability and properties. Further, it summarizes characterization strategies of clinical grade stem cells for stem cell therapy. This book is an invaluable contribution to having an academic and industrial understanding with respect to R&D and manufacturing of clinical grade stem cells.

Several years ago, Thomas Steitz agreed to contribute a volume to the'World Scientific Series in Structural Biology'that would deal with the contributions he and his coworkers have made to structural biology during his remarkable career. Sadly, Tom died in the fall of 2018 before he had had time to do more than produce an outline for this book, and a list of the reprints he wanted it to contain.Fortunately, Tom's colleagues and coworkers responded enthusiastically when they were informed later that fall that if they were willing to help out, a volume would be published to commemorate his career. It fell to Anders Liljas, Peggy Eatherton, Tom's longtime administrative assistant, and Peter Moore, a close colleague, to oversee their efforts. Thomas Steitz is best known for the work he and his coworkers did to elucidate the biochemical basis of gene expression. The structures of a large number of the macromolecules involved in transcription and translation emerged from his laboratory over the course of his career. This book includes reprints of the most important papers he had published, grouped according to the structures they relate to, and commentaries written by the scientists who collaborated with him to solve each of them. It thus summarizes the achievements of one of the most distinguished biochemists of the second half of the 20th century.

Cellular and Molecular Aspects of Myeloproliferative Neoplasms - Part A, Volume 365 in the International Review of Cell and Molecular Biology series reviews and details current advances in cell and molecular biology. Chapters in this new release include MPN a continuum of different disease entities, Bone marrow microenvironment of MPN, Extramedullary hemopoiesis in MPN, The JAK2 mutation, Calreticulin mutations in myeloproliferative neoplasms, and Cytogenetic abnormalities and non-driver mutations in MPN. The IRCMB series has a worldwide readership, maintaining a high standard by publishing invited articles on important and timely topics that are authored by prominent cell and molecular biologists. The articles published in IRCMB have a high impact and an average cited half-life of 9 years. This great resource ranks high amongst scientific journals dealing with cell biology. - Publishes only invited review articles on selected topics - Authored by established and active cell and molecular biologists and drawn from international sources - Offers a wide range of perspectives on specific subjects

This book addresses multiple aspects of biological clocks in prokaryotes. The first part of the book deals with the circadian clock system in cyanobacteria, i.e. the pioneer of bacterial clocks. Starting with the history and background of cyanobacteria and circadian rhythms in microorganisms, the topics range from the molecular basis, structure and evolution of the circadian clock to modelling approaches, Kai systems in cyanobacteria and biotechnological applications. In the second part, emergent timekeeping properties of bacteria in microbiomes and bacteria other than cyanobacteria are discussed.Since the discovery of circadian rhythms in cyanobacteria in the late 1980s, the field has exploded with new information. The cyanobacterial model system for studying circadian rhythms (Synechococcus elongatus), has allowed a detailed genetic dissection of the bacterial clock due to state-of-the-art methods in molecular, structural, and evolutionary biology. Cutting-edge research spanning from cyanobacteria and circadian phenomena in other kinds of bacteria, to microbiomes has now given the field another major boost.This book is aimed at junior and senior researchers alike. Students or researchers new to the field of biological clocks in prokaryotes will get a comprehensive overview, while more experienced researchers will get an update on the latest developments.

The evolution of animal diversity is strongly affected by the origin of novel cell and tissue types and their interactions with each other. Understanding the evolution of cell types will shed light on the evolution of novel structures, and in turn highlight how animals diversified. Several cell types may also have been lost as animals simplified – for example did sponges have nerves and lose them? This book reveals the interplay between gains and losses and provides readers with a better grasp of the evolutionary history of cell types. In addition, the book illustrates how new cell types allow a better understanding permitting the discrimination between convergence and homology.

Glycogen and Starch: So Similar, yet so Different. Both carbohydrates are central to the primary metabolism of a large part of the living kingdom. Generally, animals, fungi, and bacteria store glycogen, while plants largely rely on starch. This book provides a broad and current view on both glycogen and starch, in lower and higher organisms. Beside biochemistry, physiology and regulation of glycogen and starch metabolism, the reader can expect an insight into glycogen storage diseases, select methods and relevant techniques. While significant progress has been made in both fields, this volume emphasizes an opportunity of collaboration for researchers working on a major intersection of the living world.

Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Nanotherapeutics: Aging, Diseases, and Nanotechnology-Related Strategies in Mitochondrial Medicine provides a comprehensive overview of mitochondrial dysfunction and current strategies for targeting the organelle. Based on the most current research, the editor lined up a team of worldwide experts to cover the most exciting research in the area, considering the impact through the human life span. This book is structured in two parts that provide a good balance of foundational and applied content. Part I deals with an overview of mitochondrial dysfunction and its role in the aging process, including metabolic diseases, neuro-affective and neurodegenerative disorders, sepsis, and toxicological aspects. Part II covers therapeutic substance delivery to mitochondria with a focus on cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and increasing the bioavailability of natural compounds of interest. Several nanoscale strategies are described. Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Nanotherapeutics: Aging, Diseases, and Nanotechnology-Related Strategies in Mitochondrial Medicine is a complete resource for researchers in this exciting field. Its comprehensive coverage makes this book particularly interesting to bioscience researchers looking to understand the foundations of mitochondrial health throughout the human life span. Additionally, clinician researchers, medical doctors, nutritionists, pharmacologists, and sports scientists may be attracted to the detailed information on the organelle-targeted delivery strategies. - Contains detailed information on mitochondrial dysfunction - Reviews our current understanding of the role of mitochondria in aging - Includes coverage of specific conditions, including sports and affective disorders, among others - Discusses mitochondria targeted delivery of therapeutic compounds

Novel Approaches to Colorectal Cancer, Volume 151 in the Advances in Cancer Research series, is composed of 11 reviews covering state-of-the-art research relating to the etiology, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer. The book's chapters were written by recognized experts in the field, and include sections on molecular biomarkers in diagnosis and therapy, the interplay of diet, lifestyle, and the microbiome, early-age onset disease, mutational signature analysis, challenges in early detection, immunotherapy, organoid technology, the role of epigenetic alterations, disparities in minority populations, field carcinogenesis, and cancer as an evolutionary process. Each of these topics provides novel insights and concepts on various aspects of the nature of colorectal cancer, offering new opportunities for the management of a major source of cancer incidence and mortality. - Provides information on the timely nature of the included topics, which represent the most current concepts and approaches in cancer research - Offers outstanding and original reviews on colorectal cancer research - Provides the authority and expertise of the authors, all of whom are highly recognized and conducting state-of-the-art investigations in cancer, with this release focusing on colorectal cancer

This book gathers relatively recent and significant topics in the field of ion channel research. Ion channels form the molecular basis for membrane excitability in cells present in the cardiovascular and nervous systems. In many non-excitable cells, ion channels contribute to diverse physiological functions, including the secretion of signaling compounds like hormones and insulin, cell volume regulation, intracellular signaling, especially Ca2+ signaling, etc. Many human diseases have been attributed to abnormal channel functions and defective membrane expression of channel proteins. On the other hand, ion channels are excellent models for studying protein biophysics, especially the allosteric regulation of protein function by miscellaneous stimuli. Therefore, research on ion channels carries significant meaning for the understanding of basic protein biophysics and diverse physiological functions. Such vital information also assists in developing novel and effective treatmentsfor related human diseases. This book provides graduates and scientists in both basic and clinical levels a comprehensive understanding of cutting-edge advances and a useful and stimulating platform for tackling their own questions about ion channels.

This book covers important topics such as the dynamic structure and function of the 26S proteasome, the DNA replication machine: structure and dynamic function and the structural organization and protein–protein interactions in the human adenovirus capsid, to mention but a few.The 18 chapters included here, written by experts in their specific field, are at the forefront of scientific knowledge. The impressive integration of structural data from X-ray crystallography with that from cryo-electron microscopy is apparent throughout the book. In addition, functional aspects are also given a high priority. Chapter 1 is available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.

New Techniques for Studying Biomembranes describes some of the latest methods used to investigate the dynamic distribution of specific lipids in membranes and their effects on other membrane components. The contributors present important discoveries with respect to lipid analysis and lipid interactions with membrane proteins. Various methods, which have been used to study lipid bilayer structure and lipid organization in membranes, include both in vitro and in vivo membrane systems, and study membrane proteins in various membrane systems.Key Features: Reviews both in vivo and in vitro analytical technologies and methods for studying membrane structure and function Explores how lipid bilayers and membrane proteins interact Includes contributions from an international team of researchers actively studying membrane structure and function Identifies various diseases whose causes are related to membrane proteins Related Titles:Christopher R. Jacobs, Hayden Huang, and Ronald Y. Kwon. Introduction to Cell Mechanics and Mechanobiology (ISBN 978-0-8153-4425-4)Wendell Lim and Bruce Mayer. Cell Signaling: Principles and Mechanisms (ISBN 978-0-8153-4244-1)Stephen Rothman. Proteins Crossing Membranes: A Scientist's Memoir (978-0-3670-7449-4)

This book discusses unique ion channels and transporters that are located within epithelial tissues of various organs including the kidney, intestine, pancreas and respiratory tract. As the authors show, these channels and transporters play crucial roles in transepithelial ion and fluid transport across epithelia and their contribution to maintaining homeostasis. Readers will be introduced to the fundamentals of ion transport in terms of function, modelling, regulation, structure and pharmacology. This is the first of three volumes highlighting the importance of epithelial ion channels and transporters in basic physiology and pathophysiology of human diseases. This volume focuses on basic fundamentals of epithelial transport physiology. There is a range of chapters dedicated to specific aspects of epithelial ion transport and cell function. Accordingly, the authors discuss techniques used to determine epithelial function, principles of epithelia transport, polarization of epithelial cells, mathematical modelling of epithelial ion transport, protein folding of ion channels, degradation epithelial ion channels, fundamentals of epithelial sodium, potassium and chloride transport, fundamentals of bicarbonate secretion, volume regulation, and microRNA regulation of epithelial channels and transporters. Given its scope, Volume 1 offers a valuable resource for physiology students, scientists and clinicians alike.

This book summarizes all the important aspects of CRLs (Cullin-RING E3 Ubiquitin Ligases), while providing details of mechanistic specifics that go beyond protein ubiquitination and neddylation. Ubiquitin ligases, including the CRLs, which are activated by neddylation, play an important role in diverse biological processes and are involved in various human diseases, particularly cancer. The book covers various topics, such as CRL structure, biology, genetics, its regulation by neddylation, its pivotal role in human disease, and its potential in drug discovery and targeted therapies. The book appeals to biochemists and biologists working in other fields, and, given the importance of CRLs in all aspects of cell biology and the great promise of targeting these complexes for therapy, is a valuable resource anyone interested in modern biology or medicine.

Protein Misfolding, Volume 118, covers the wide spectrum of diseases and disorders that are attributed to protein misfolding, including degenerative and neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, renal, glaucoma, cancer, cystic fibrosis, Gaucher's disease, and many others. Specific chapters cover Mass spectrometric approaches for profiling protein folding and stability, Biomembranes, a key player in protein misfolding, how Genetic and environmental factors interact to disrupt proteostasis and trigger protein misfolding diseases, Formation of oligomers and large amorphous aggregates by intrinsically disordered proteins, Protein misfolding in ER stress with applications to cardiovascular and renal disease, and much more. - Integrates methods for studying protein misfolding, factors that trigger this process and its role in a wide spectrum of diseases and disorders - Contains timely chapters written by well-renowned authorities in their field - Provides data that is well supported by a number of high quality illustrations, figures and tables, and targets a very wide audience of specialists, researchers and students

Karp's Cell and Molecular Biology delivers a concise and illustrative narrative that helps students connect key concepts and experimentation, so they better understand how we know what we know in the world of cell biology. This classic text explores core concepts in considerable depth, often adding experimental detail. It is written in an inviting style and at mid-length, to assist students in managing the plethora of details encountered in the Cell Biology course. The 9th Edition includes two new sections and associated assessment in each chapter that show the relevance of key cell biology concepts to plant cell biology and bioengineering.

This book focuses on the mechanical properties of cells, discussing the basic concepts and processes in the fields of immunology, biology, and biochemistry. It introduces and explains state-of-the-art biophysical methods and examines the role of mechanical properties in the cell/protein interaction with the connective tissue microenvironment. The book presents a unique perspective on cellular mechanics and biophysics by combining the mechanical, biological, physical, biochemical, medical, and immunological views, highlighting the importance of the mechanical properties of cells and biophysical measurement methods. The book guides readers through the complex and growing field of cellular mechanics and biophysics, connecting and discussing research findings from different fields such as biology, cell biology, immunology, physics, and medicine. Featuring suggestions for further reading throughout and addressing a wide selection of biophysical topics, this book is an indispensable guide for graduate and advanced undergraduate students in the fields of cellular mechanics and biophysics.

Chemoattractant Ligands and Their Receptors succinctly summarizes cutting-edge research in the important area of chemoattraction in immunology. It explains how chemoattractant molecules mobilize immune cells to ward off attack by invading pathogens, both at a molecular and at a cellular level. Written by acknowledged experts in the field, it contains detailed molecular and structural information on each of the major chemoattractants and their receptors. Its unique multidisciplinary approach encompasses biology, immunology, protein chemistry, and molecular biology. A time-saving reference for both researchers and students.

Principles of Neurobiology, Second Edition presents the major concepts of neuroscience with an emphasis on how we know what we know. The text is organized around a series of key experiments to illustrate how scientific progress is made and helps upper-level undergraduate and graduate students discover the relevant primary literature. Written by a single author in a clear and consistent writing style, each topic builds in complexity from electrophysiology to molecular genetics to systems level in a highly integrative approach. Students can fully engage with the content via thematically linked chapters and will be able to read the book in its entirety in a semester-long course. Principles of Neurobiology is accompanied by a rich package of online student and instructor resources including animations, figures in PowerPoint, and a Question Bank for adopting instructors.

Karp's Cell and Molecular Biology delivers a concise and illustrative narrative that helps students connect key concepts and experimentation, so they better understand how we know what we know in the world of cell biology. This classic text explores core concepts in considerable depth, often adding experimental detail. It is written in an inviting style and at mid-length, to assist students in managing the plethora of details encountered in the Cell Biology course. The 9th Australia and New Zealand Edition includes two new sections and associated assessment in each chapter that show the relevance of key cell biology concepts to plant cell biology and bioengineering.

This book is indexed in Chemical Abstracts ServiceEver since 1911, the Solvay Conferences have shaped modern physics. The format is quite different from other conferences as the emphasis is placed on discussion. The 27th edition held in October 2017 in Brussels and chaired by Boris Shraiman continued this tradition and addressed some of the most pressing open questions in the fields of biophysics, gathering many of the leading figures working on a wide variety of profound problems.The proceedings contain the'rapporteur talks'giving a broad overview with unique insights by distinguished renowned scientists. These lectures cover the five sessions:'Intra-cellular Structure and Dynamics','Cell Behavior and Control','Inter-cellular Interactions and Patterns','Morphogenesis','Evolutionary dynamics'.In the Solvay tradition, the proceedings also include the prepared comments to the rapporteur talks. The discussions among the participants — expert, yet lively and sometimes contentious — have been edited to retain their flavor and are reproduced in full. The reader is taken on a breathtaking ride through a fascinating field which is expanding rapidly and which was for the first time the subject of a Solvay Conference on Physics.

Advances in Genetics, Volume 105, provides the latest information on the rapidly evolving field of genetics, presenting new medical breakthroughs that are occurring as a result of advances in our knowledge of the topic. The book continually publishes important reviews of the broadest interest to geneticists and their colleagues in affiliated disciplines, critically analyzing future directions. - Critically analyzes future directions for the study of clinical genetics - Written and edited by recognized leaders in the field - Presents new medical breakthroughs that are occurring as a result of advances in our knowledge of genetics

This textbook presents solid tools for in silico engineering biology, offering students a step-by-step guide to mastering the smart design of metabolic pathways. The first part explains the Design-Build-Test-Learn-cycle engineering approach to biology, discussing the basic tools to model biological and chemistry-based systems. Using these basic tools, the second part focuses on various computational protocols for metabolic pathway design, from enzyme selection to pathway discovery and enumeration. In the context of industrial biotechnology, the final part helps readers understand the challenges of scaling up and optimisation. By working with the free programming language Scientific Python, this book provides easily accessible tools for studying and learning the principles of modern in silico metabolic pathway design. Intended for advanced undergraduates and master's students in biotechnology, biomedical engineering, bioinformatics and systems biology students, the introductory sections make it also useful for beginners wanting to learn the basics of scientific coding and find real-world, hands-on examples.

In an intriguing series of experiments carried out many years ago, a common scientific belief, feted by no less than three Nobel prizes, was brought into question. The observations were about proteins—the molecules that the genetic code specifies and that are in one way or another central to all of life's activities. The experiments however were not about what proteins do, but how they are moved, in particular how they are moved from where they are made to where they act. The results of these studies conflicted with the standard view of how this happens, and thus became controversial.The standard view, the vesicle theory of protein secretion, envisions proteins being carried within and out of cells en masse in membrane-bound sacs or vesicles. The controversial experiments demonstrated that to the contrary individual protein molecules cross the relevant membranes as a result of their own motion. This was thought to be impossible at the time. Proteins Crossing Membranes is a personal narrative that tells the story of the controversy. Among other things, the author illustrates that scientists, like the rest of us, can rigidly hold onto their beliefs despite evidence that they are misguided. Key Features Reviews the data in support and critical of the vesicle theory of protein secretion Explores the ways scientists respond to evidence that challenges a favored theory Documents the author's personal experiences in this conflict-laden situation

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is an acellular three-dimensional network composed of proteins, glycoproteins, proteoglycans and exopolysaccharides. It primarily serves as a structural component in the tissues and organs of plants and animals, or forms biofilms in which bacterial cells are embedded. ECMs are highly dynamic structures that undergo continuous remodeling, and disruptions are frequently the result of pathological processes associated with severe diseases such as arteriosclerosis, neurodegenerative illness or cancer. In turn, bacterial biofilms are a source of concern for human health, as they are associated with resistance to antibiotics. Although exopolysaccharides are crucial for ECM formation and function, they have received considerably little attention to date.The respective chapters of this book comprehensively address such issues, and provide reviews on the structural, biochemical, molecular and biophysical properties of exopolysaccharides. These components are abundantly produced by virtually all taxa including bacteria, algae, plants, fungi, invertebrates and vertebrates. They include long unbranched homopolymers (cellulose, chitin/chitosan), linear copolymers (alginate, agarose), peptoglycans such as murein, heteropolymers like a variety of glycosaminoglycans (hyaluronan, dermatan, keratin, heparin, Pel), and branched heteropolymers such as pectin and hemicellulose.A separate chapter is dedicated to modern industrial and biomedical applications of exopolysaccharides and polysaccharide-based biocomposites. Their unique chemical, physical and mechanical properties have attracted considerable interest, inspired basic and applied research, and have already been harnessed to form structural biocomposite hybrids for tailor-made applications in regenerative medicine, bioengineering and biosensor design. Given its scope, this book provides a substantial source of basic and applied information for a wide range of scientists, as well as valuable textbook for graduate and advanced undergraduate students.

Understanding Cancer is a brand new undergraduate textbook for students without prior training in biology that integrates an introduction to cancer medicine with descriptions of the biological processes that go wrong to cause cancer's onset and progression. It also highlights the human side of cancer with stories of patients and loved ones touched by the disease, dealing with diagnosis, treatment, and the prospect of death as well as the broader societal aspects of cancer and its prevention. Key discoveries that have improved our understanding of cancer are presented in sidebars. In spite of this diversity, the book maintains precision and simplicity in describing what is and is not known about cancer, describing the strengths and limitations of current treatments

Reviews in Fluorescence 2017, the tenth volume of the book serial from Springer, serves as a comprehensive collection of current trends and emerging hot topics in the field of fluorescence and closely related disciplines, such as fluorescence based plasmonics. It summarizes the year's progress in fluorescence and its applications, with authoritative reviews specialized enough to be attractive to professional researchers, yet also appealing to the wider audience of scientists in related disciplines of fluorescence.Reviews in Fluorescence offers an essential reference material for any research lab or company working in the fluorescence field and related areas. All academics, bench scientists, and industry professionals wishing to take advantage of the latest and greatest in the continuously emerging field of fluorescence will find it an invaluable resource.

In this book, renowned scientists describe the role of steroid chirality and modification of lipid membrane physical properties in the modulation of G protein-coupled receptors and ion channels. The application of commonly-used technical approaches such as mass spectrometry and nucleic magnetic resonance transfer spectroscopy for studies on cholesterol distribution and alteration of lipid bilayer characteristics is also discussed. This book offers comprehensive insights into the current understanding of cholesterol-driven modulation of protein function via mechanisms that extend beyond lipid-protein direct interactions. In the first part, the chapters introduce the reader to the use of the chemical derivatives of cholesterol as a valuable laboratory tool in the studies of cholesterol-driven modulation of protein function. In the second part, examples of cholesterol-induced changes in membrane physical characteristics are presented and discussed in light of their multifaceted contribution to the effect of cholesterol on protein function. The book will be of interest to undergraduate and graduate students as well as basic science and medical researchers with a keen interest in the biophysical properties of cholesterol and physiological consequences of cholesterol presence in biological systems.

Biomembranes consist of molecular bilayers with many lipid and protein components. The fluidity of these bilayers allows them to respond to different environmental cues by changing their local molecular composition as well as their shape and topology. On the nanometer scale, this multi-responsive behavior can be studied by molecular dynamics simulations, which provide both snapshots and movies of the bilayer conformations. The general conceptual framework for these simulations is provided by the theory of curvature elasticity. The latter theory also explains the behavior of giant vesicles as observed by optical microscopy on the micrometer scale. The present volume describes new insights as obtained from recent developments in analytical theory, computer simulations, and experimental approaches. The seven chapters of the volume are arranged in a bottom-up manner from smaller to larger scales. These chapters address the refined molecular dynamics and multiscale modeling of biomembranes, their morphological complexity and adhesion, the engulfment and endocytosis of nanoparticles, the fusion of giant unilamellar vesicles, as well as recent advances in microfluidic technology applied to model membranes. - Bridging the gap between lipid molecules and giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) - Integrated view obtained from analytical theory, computer simulations, and experimental observations - Multiresponsive behavior and morphological complexity of biomembranes

Cell surface small molecules and macromolecules, such as members of cholesterol family (including steroid hormones), the glycolipid family (sphingolipids), the glycoprotein family (both N-linked and O-linked), and a vast array of other receptors have been shown to be involved in normal and abnormal cellular processes. The 11th International Symposium on Cell Surface Macromolecules, held in Mohali, India, in February 2017 provided a comprehensive update on the major advances in this area. Presenting selected contributions from this meeting, this book comprises 24 chapters, which provide in-depth analyses of data on the role of cell surface macromolecules in cellular function and their alterations associated with pathological conditions. It includes comprehensive research papers and critical overviews of the functional role of cell surface molecules, discussing topics such as biochemical, biophysical, and cell biological approaches to study cell membrane molecules, and metabolism of glycoconjugates.