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Molecular Marker Techniques: A Potential Approach of Crop Improvement
by Nitish KumarThis edited book covers the applications of molecular markers in the genetic improvement of crop plants. Recent advances in molecular marker techniques such as the development of high-throughput genotyping platforms, marker-assisted selection, and non-coding RNA-based markers have been discussed. Essential information is provided on functional markers, genotype-by-sequencing, and association mapping methodologies that can facilitate accelerated crop breeding programs for increased yield, high nutritional quality, and tolerance to a variety of abiotic and biotic stresses. This volume presents basic information on molecular marker techniques from marker location up to gene cloning. The book includes a description of technical approaches in genome analysis such as comparison of marker systems, positional cloning, and array techniques. This book is of interest to teachers, researchers, and plant breeders. The book also serves as additional reading material for undergraduate and graduate students of agriculture, horticulture, and forestry.
Molecular Markers in Mycology: Diagnostics and Marker Developments (Fungal Biology)
by Bhim Pratap Singh Vijai Kumar GuptaThe Kingdom fungi encompass a massive diversity of taxa with wide-ranging ecologies, life cycles, and morphologies ranging from unicellular aquatic chytrids to large mushrooms. Before molecular methods came in existence, taxonomists considered this Kingdom to be a member of the plant kingdom due to certain life styles like immobility and growth habitats. Molecular markers (also known as DNA markers), facilitated a better alternative method over traditional morphological methods, employed for the identification, characterization, and to understand the evolution of fungi. The morphological methods used for identification are mainly dependent on spore color or microscopic features whereas molecular markers are based on DNA polymorphism in the genomic organization. Phylogenetic studies reported in last decade, based on molecular markers, have reshaped the classification system of Kingdom fungi, which divided into one subkingdom, seven phyla, and ten subphyla. Recent advances in molecular mycology have opened the way for researchers to identify and characterize novel fungal species from unique environments. Mycology is concerned with the systematic study of fungi, including their genetic and biochemical properties, their use to humans as a source of medicine and food, as well as their dangers, such as poisoning and infections. In the 21st century with the development of DNA sequencing technologies and phylogenetic analysis based on molecular markers, new insights into fungal taxonomy were provided. This book contains a thorough discussion of molecular characterization and detection of different groups of fungi by using PCR-based markers and provides a comprehensive view of the applications and uses of different molecular markers in molecular mycology. It also addresses the recent molecular markers employed to solve the problems of identification and discusses current approaches used in molecular characterization and detection of fungi.
Molecular Markers in Plants
by Robert J. HenryMolecular Markers in Plants surveys an array of technologies used in the molecular analysis of plants. The role molecular markers play in plant improvement has grown significantly as DNA sequencing and high-throughput technologies have matured. This timely review of technologies and techniques will provide readers with a useful resource on the latest molecular technologies.Molecular Markers in Plants not only reviews past achievements, but also catalogs recent advances and looks forward towards the future application of molecular technologies in plant improvement. Opening chapters look at the development of molecular technologies. Subsequent chapters look at a wide range of applications for the use of these advances in fields as diverse as plant breeding, production, biosecurity, and conservation. The final chapters look forward toward future developments in the field.Looking broadly at the field of molecular technologies, Molecular Markers in Plants will be an essential addition to the library of every researcher, institution, and company working in the field of plant improvement.
Molecular Materials: Preparation, Characterization, and Applications
by Sanjay Malhotra B. L. Prasad Jordi FraxedasThe field of molecular materials research looks at the preparation and characterization of potentially useful materials with enhanced physical, chemical, and biomedical properties. Molecular Materials: Preparation, Characterization, and Applications discusses the cutting-edge interdisciplinary research in the area of advanced molecular-based materials. This book explores multiple aspects of molecular materials, including their synthesis and characterization, and gives information on their application in various fields.
Molecular Mechanism of Crucifer’s Host-Resistance
by Govind Singh Saharan Prabhu Dayal Meena Naresh K. MehtaThe book is a comprehensive compilation of applied knowledge for developing resistant varieties to all the major biotrophs, hemibiotrophs and necrotrophs pathogens of crucifers through the use of latest biotechnological approaches. The book includes, multi-component resistance, incorporation of non-host resistance gene, function of particular gene in resistance, expression of age related resistance, enhanced gene resistance, sources of alternative gene which enhance disease resistance, through the use of latest biotechnical approaches like proteomics, omics, transcriptomics and metabolomics. The book also explores the molecular basis of disease resistance, its biometabolomics activities in response to infection and interaction by the various biotrophs, hemibiotrophs and necrotrophs pathogens. The identification of R genes and its incorporation into agronomically superior varieties through use of molecular mechanisms is also explained. This compilation is immensely useful to the researchers especially Brassica breeders, teachers, extension specialists, students, industrialists, farmers, and all others who are interested to grow healthy, and profitable cruciferous crops all over the world.
Molecular mechanisms and physiology of disease
by Nilanjana Maulik Tom KaragiannisIn a simplified form, epigenetics refers to heritable changes in phenotype that are not due to changes in the underlying DNA sequence. In this book, epigenetic mechanisms of regulation and dysregulation in health and disease are explored in great depth. Detailed chapters on epigenetic processes including DNA methylation and chromatin post-translational modifications including potential interventions with DNA methyltransferase inhibitors and histone deacetylase inhibitors are explored in initial chapters. These provide a detailed overview and important background to the entire field. The book is then focussed on epigenetic mechanisms involved in various diseases including anti-inflammatory and autoimmune conditions. Important accounts relating to the effects of epigenetics in metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease and asthma are the focus of subsequent chapters. The role of epigenetic dysregulation in malignancy is a current topic of interest and represents an intense field of research. A large component of this book is dedicated to the analysis of aberrant epigenetic processes in carcinogenesis and cancer progression. Further, chapters are focused on emerging cancer prevention using nutritional components and anti-cancer therapies particularly with histone deacetylase inhibitors, which have already been approved for the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. The emerging role of nanoparticle preparations, especially in the context of delivering potential epigenetic therapies to target cells in various diseases, is also explored in this book. Overall, this book encompasses a wide range of topics related to epigenetic mechanisms in health and disease and would appeal to anyone with an interest in epigenetics, chromatin biology and emerging epigenetic interventions and therapies.
Molecular Mechanisms Determining Mammalian Oocyte Quality: Oocyte Developmental Competence, Aneuploidy, and Clinical Relevance (Advances in Anatomy, Embryology and Cell Biology #238)
by Ahmed Z. BalboulaAs the age of childbearing increases, reduced female gamete (egg) quality has emerged as the primaery cause of infertility in women. This book addresses molecular mechanisms that regulate oocyte quality as well as intrinsic and extrinsic factors that compromise these mechanisms. Eggs are produced through a unique cell division called meiosis. Oocyte meiosis is initiated early in fetal life. Shortly before birth, the oocyte undergoes a prolonged arrest at prophase I until the age of puberty, at which selected oocytes resume meiosis I. Following meiotic resumption and during oocyte maturation, tight regulation of nuclear and DNA-related mechanisms ensures proper homologous chromosome segregation prior to another arrest at metaphase II. Any errors prior to completion of meiosis I can lead to chromosome segregation errors and aneuploidy, the most common genetic cause of miscarriage and congenital disorders such as Down syndrome. In addition to nuclear maturation, several cytoplasmic processes are orchestrated to support cell division and to generate developmentally competent eggs capable of supporting fertilization and early embryonic development. The interaction between these nuclear and cytoplasmic processes is critical for producing good-quality oocytes. This volume in the Advances in Anatomy, Embryology and Cell Biology book series presents current reviews by leading experts. It offers valuable insights for researchers, physicians and Ph.D. students interested in reproductive biology, particularly oocyte quality and meiosis.
Molecular Mechanisms in Legionella Pathogenesis
by Hubert HilbiLegionnaires' disease, a potentially fatal type of pneumonia primarily affecting elderly and immuno-compromised persons, is caused by the ubiquitous environmental bacterium Legionella pneumophila. This book offers authoritative reviews of different facets of its virulence, focusing on comparative phagocyte infection, virulence gene regulation, biochemical functions of effector proteins and cellular pathogen-host interactions, as well as host responses and immunity to L. pneumophila. Taken together, the contributions in this compilation provide a state-of-the-art overview of current insights into the molecular pathogenesis of the opportunistic and potentially fatal pathogen L. pneumophila.
Molecular Mechanisms in Materials: Insights from Atomistic Modeling and Simulation
by Sidney YipA student-oriented introduction to understanding mechanisms at the atomistic level controlling macroscopic materials phenomena through molecular dynamics simulations.Machine-learning-based computation in materials innovation, performance optimization, and sustainability offers exciting opportunities at the mesoscale research frontier. Molecular Mechanisms in Materials presents research findings and insights about material behavior at the molecular level and its impact on macroscopic properties. The book&’s fifteen essays represent author Sidney Yip&’s work in atomistic modeling and materials simulation over more than five decades. The phenomena are grouped into five basic types: fluctuations in simple fluids, crystal melting, plasticity and fracture, glassy relaxations, and amorphous rheology, all focused on molecular mechanisms in base materials.The organizing principle of Molecular Mechanisms in Materials is multiscale modeling and simulation, where conceptual models and simulation techniques are linked across the micro-to-macro length and time scales to control the outcome of specific materials processes. Each essay addresses a specific standalone topic of materials phenomena while also recognizing the larger context of materials science and technology. Individual case studies serve both as standalone essays and companion pieces to each other. Indeed, the global transformation of science and technology is well underway: in his epilogue, Yip discusses the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance future materials for societal benefits in the face of global challenges such as climate change, energy sustainability, infrastructure renewal, and nuclear arms control.
Molecular Mechanisms in Nutritional Epigenetics (Epigenetics and Human Health #12)
by Luis M. VaschettoThis volume in the Epigenetics and Human Health series explores the intersection of diet and epigenetic modifications. It provides the reader with the latest research on how diet can influence our genetic and epigenetic profiles, thereby affecting our health and susceptibility to disease. In recent years, the field of nutritional epigenetics/nutri-epigenetics has expanded significantly, shedding light on how environmentally-driven epigenetic pathways can be modulated through nutrition and eating habits. The book provides a comprehensive introduction to the various epigenetic mechanisms affected by dietary compounds and focuses on specific topics such as the relationship between diet and the gut microbiome, the impact of diet on cardiovascular disease and psychopathology and the role of diet in pregnancy. Written by an international team of experts, this book reveals the molecular mechanisms underlying the influence of diet on epigenetic modifications and discusses the prospect of personalized medicine using dietary strategies to promote well-being and protect against diseases. The book is aimed at researchers and students in the fields of human nutrition, genetics, and medicine.
Molecular Mechanisms in Plant Adaptation
by Roosa LaitinenPlants are forced to adapt for a variety of reasons-- protection, reproductive viability, and environmental and climatic changes. Computational tools and molecular advances have provided researchers with significant new insights into the molecular basis of plant adaptation. Molecular Mechanisms in Plant Adaptation provides a comprehensive overview of a wide variety of these different mechanisms underlying adaptation to these challenges to plant survival. Molecular Mechanisms in Plant Adaptation opens with a chapter that explores the latest technological advances used in plant adaptation research, providing readers with an overview of high-throughput technologies and their applications. The chapters that follow cover the latest developments on using natural variation to dissect genetic, epigenetic and metabolic responses of plant adaptation. Subsequent chapters describe plant responses to biotic and abiotic stressors and adaptive reproductive strategies. Emerging topics such as secondary metabolism, small RNA mediated regulation as well as cell type specific responses to stresses are given special precedence. The book ends with chapters introducing computational approaches to study adaptation and focusing on how to apply laboratory findings to field studies and breeding programs. Molecular Mechanisms in Plant Adaptation interest plant molecular biologists and physiologists, plant stress biologists, plant geneticists and advanced plant biology students.
Molecular Mechanisms in Spermatogenesis (Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology #1288)
by C. Yan Cheng Fei SunThis new edition provides an update on the molecular mechanisms that regulate spermatogenesis. In addition to the rodent as a study model, chapters also include research on studies in humans. It includes the latest approaches of studying spermatogenesis, such as the use of bioinformatics, molecular modeling and others which are not commonly found in published materials. It also reviews the latest developments in the field, such as studies on the role of regulatory RNAs on spermatogenesis. Due to the declining fertility rate among men, a brand new chapter highlights the impact of environmental toxicants on spermatogenesis.
Molecular Mechanisms in Yeast Carbon Metabolism
by Jure Piškur and Concetta CompagnoYeast is one of the most studied laboratory organisms and represents one of the most central models to understand how any eukaryote cell works. On the other hand, yeast fermentations have for millennia provided us with a variety of biotech products, like wine, beer, vitamins, and recently also with pharmaceutically active heterologous products and biofuels. A central biochemical activity in the yeast cell is the metabolism of carbon compounds, providing energy for the whole cell, and precursors for any of the final fermentation products. A complex set of genes and regulatory pathways controls the metabolism of carbon compounds, from nutrient sensing, signal transduction, transcription regulation and post-transcriptional events. Recent advances in comparative genomics and development of post-genomic tools have provided further insights into the network of genes and enzymes, and molecular mechanisms which are responsible for a balanced metabolism of carbon compounds in the yeast cell, and which could be manipulated in the laboratory to increase the yield and quality of yeast biotech products. This book provides a dozen of most comprehensive reviews on the recent developments and achievements in the field of yeast carbon metabolism, from academic studies on gene expression to biotechnology relevant topics.
Molecular Mechanisms in Yeast Carbon Metabolism
by Jure Piškur Concetta CompagnoYeast is one of the most studied laboratory organisms and represents one of the most central models to understand how any eukaryote cell works. On the other hand, yeast fermentations have for millennia provided us with a variety of biotech products, like wine, beer, vitamins, and recently also with pharmaceutically active heterologous products and biofuels. A central biochemical activity in the yeast cell is the metabolism of carbon compounds, providing energy for the whole cell, and precursors for any of the final fermentation products. A complex set of genes and regulatory pathways controls the metabolism of carbon compounds, from nutrient sensing, signal transduction, transcription regulation and post-transcriptional events. Recent advances in comparative genomics and development of post-genomic tools have provided further insights into the network of genes and enzymes, and molecular mechanisms which are responsible for a balanced metabolism of carbon compounds in the yeast cell, and which could be manipulated in the laboratory to increase the yield and quality of yeast biotech products. This book provides a dozen of most comprehensive reviews on the recent developments and achievements in the field of yeast carbon metabolism, from academic studies on gene expression to biotechnology relevant topics.
Molecular Mechanisms of Autonomy in Biological Systems: Relativity of Code, Energy and Mass
by Tara KarimiThis book presents a novel molecular description for understanding the regulatory mechanisms behind the autonomy and self-organization in biological systems. Chapters focus on defining and explaining the regulatory molecular mechanisms behind different aspects of autonomy and self-organization in the sense of autonomous coding, data processing, structure (mass) formation and energy production in a biological system. Subsequent chapters discuss the cross-talk among mechanisms of energy, and mass and information, transformation in biological systems. Other chapters focus on applications regarding therapeutic approaches in regenerative medicine. Molecular Mechanisms of Autonomy in Biological Systems is an indispensable resource for scientists and researchers in regenerative medicine, stem cell biology, molecular biology, tissue engineering, developmental biology, biochemistry, biophysics, bioinformatics, as well as big data sciences, complexity and soft computing.
Molecular Mechanisms of Bacterial Infection via the Gut
by Chihiro SasakawaOur gut is colonized by numerous bacteria throughout our life, and the gut epithelium is constantly exposed to foreign microbes and dietary antigens. Thus, the gut epithelium acts as a barrier against microbial invaders and is equipped with various innate defense systems. Resident commensal and foreign invading bacteria interact intimately with the gut epithelium and can impact host cellular and innate immune responses. From the perspective of many pathogenic bacteria, the gut epithelium serves as an infectious foothold and port of entry for disseminate into deeper tissues. In some instances when the intestinal defense activity and host immune system become compromised, even commensal and opportunistic pathogenic bacteria can cross the barrier and initiate local and systematic infectious diseases. Conversely, some highly pathogenic bacteria, such as those highlighted in this book, are able to colonize or invade the intestinal epithelium despite the gut barrier function is intact. Therefore, the relationship between the defensive activity of the intestinal epithelium against microbes and the pathogenesis of infective microbes becomes the basis for maintaining a healthy life. The authors offer an overview of the current topics related to major gastric and enteric pathogens, while highlighting their highly evolved host (human)-adapted infectious processes. Clearly, an in-depth study of bacterial infectious strategies, as well as the host cellular and immune responses, presented in each chapter of this book will provide further insight into the critical roles of the host innate and adaptive immune systems and their importance in determining the severity or completely preventing infectious diseases. Furthermore, under the continuous threat of emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, the topic of gut-bacteria molecular interactions will provide various clues and ideas for the development of new therapeutic strategies.
Molecular Mechanisms of Cell Differentiation in Gonad Development
by Rafal P. PiprekThis book presents the current state of knowledge on the origin and differentiation of cell lines involved in the development of the vertebrate male and female gonads with particular emphasis on the mouse. It also discusses the processes leading to the testis- and ovary-specific structures and functions. The individual chapters review the origin and differentiation of the somatic cells of the genital ridges; the formation and migration of primordial germ cells in mouse and man; the gonadal supporting cell lineage and mammalian sex determination; differentiation of Sertoli and granulosa cells; mesonephric cell migration into the gonads and vascularization; origin and differentiation of androgen-producing cells in the gonads; germ cell commitment to the oogenic versus spermatogenic pathway and the role of retinoic acid; ovarian folliculogenesis; control of oocyte growth and development by intercellular communication within the follicular niche; biology of the Sertoli cell in the fetal, pubertal and adult mammalian testis; mechanisms regulating spermatogonial differentiation; stem cells in mammalian gonads; the role of microRNAs in cell differentiation during gonad development; human sex development and its disorders; as well as methods for the study of gonadal development.
Molecular Mechanisms of Microbial Evolution (Grand Challenges in Biology and Biotechnology)
by Pabulo H. RampelottoOne of the most profound paradigms that have transformed our understanding about life over the last decades was the acknowledgement that microorganisms play a central role in shaping the past and present environments on Earth and the nature of all life forms. Each organism is the product of its history and all extant life traces back to common ancestors, which were microorganisms. Nowadays, microorganisms represent the vast majority of biodiversity on Earth and have survived nearly 4 billion years of evolutionary change. Microbial evolution occurred and continues to take place in a great variety of environmental conditions. However, we still know little about the processes of evolution as applied to microorganisms and microbial populations. In addition, the molecular mechanisms by which microorganisms communicate/interact with each other and with multicellular organisms remains poorly understood. Such patterns of microbe-host interaction are essential to understand the evolution of microbial symbiosis and pathogenesis.Recent advances in DNA sequencing, high-throughput technologies, and genetic manipulation systems have enabled studies that directly characterize the molecular and genomic bases of evolution, producing data that are making us change our view of the microbial world. The notion that mutations in the coding regions of genomes are, in combination with selective forces, the main contributors to biodiversity needs to be re-examined as evidence accumulates, indicating that many non-coding regions that contain regulatory signals show a high rate of variation even among closely related organisms. Comparative analyses of an increasing number of closely related microbial genomes have yielded exciting insight into the sources of microbial genome variability with respect to gene content, gene order and evolution of genes with unknown functions. Furthermore, laboratory studies (i.e. experimental microbial evolution) are providing fundamental biological insight through direct observation of the evolution process. They not only enable testing evolutionary theory and principles, but also have applications to metabolic engineering and human health. Overall, these studies ranging from viruses to Bacteria to microbial Eukaryotes are illuminating the mechanisms of evolution at a resolution that Darwin, Delbruck and Dobzhansky could barely have imagined. Consequently, it is timely to review and highlight the progress so far as well as discuss what remains unknown and requires future research. This book explores the current state of knowledge on the molecular mechanisms of microbial evolution with a collection of papers written by authors who are leading experts in the field.
Molecular Mechanisms of Neurotransmitter Release
by Zhao-Wen WangWithin the complex neuronal network of the nervous system, neuron-to-neuron communication occurs mainly through chemical synapses, where the presynaptic nerve terminal releases neurotransmitters which control the function of postsynaptic neurons by acting on postsynaptic receptors. Recent decades have brought ground-breaking new developments and a wealth of knowledge to this field. In 'Molecular Mechanisms of Neurotransmitter Release', leading experts provide concise, up-to-date information on all major molecular mechanisms involved, with complete background information and figures and diagrams to further elucidate key concepts or experiments. Comprehensive and cutting-edge, 'Molecular Mechanisms of Neurotransmitter Release' is sure to provide a learning tool for neuroscience students, a solid reference for neuroscientists, and a source of knowledge for all those who have a general interest in the ever-evolving field of neuroscience
Molecular Mechanisms of Neurotransmitter Release (Advances in Neurobiology #33)
by Zhao-Wen WangNeurons communicate with each other by releasing neurotransmitters. This book provides comprehensive coverage of the molecular mechanisms involved in neurotransmitter release. The topics covered in the book range from the architecture and cytomatrix proteins of presynaptic sites, to the modes of synaptic vesicle exocytosis (full-collapse and kiss-and-run), and from the key molecules mediating synaptic vesicle fusion (SNAREs) to those that closely interact with them (UNC-13/Munc13, UNC-18/Munc18, tomosyn, and complexins). The book also delves into the calcium sensors of synaptic vesicle fusion (synaptotagmins and Doc2s), the sources of calcium that trigger synaptic exocytosis (voltage-gated calcium channels and ryanodine receptors), and the regulation of neurotransmitter release by potassium channels, cell adhesion molecules, lipids, aryl hydrocarbon receptor-interacting protein (AIP), presenilins, and calstabins. To aid in understanding and illustrate key concepts, the book includes sufficient background information and a wealth of illustrations and diagrams. The new edition includes major updates to previous chapters, as well as several new chapters that reflect the recent advances in the field. Comprehensive and cutting-edge, Molecular Mechanisms of Neurotransmitter Release, 2nd edition, is a valuable learning resource for neuroscience students and a solid reference for neuroscientists.
Molecular Mechanisms of Notch Signaling (Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology #1066)
by Tilman Borggrefe Benedetto Daniele GiaimoThis book describes the Notch signaling pathway with a focus on molecular mechanisms. The Notch signaling pathway is a seemingly simple pathway that does not involve any second messenger. Upon ligand binding two consecutive proteolytic cleavages of the NOTCH receptor release the Notch intracellular domain from the membrane. The Notch intracellular domain migrates into the nucleus and activates gene expression. Recently, new technologies allowed us to better understand this pivotal signaling cascade and revealed new regulatory mechanisms. The different chapters cover many aspects of the Notch signaling focusing on the mechanisms governing the receptor/ligand interaction as well as on the downstream intracellular signaling events. Aspects of both canonical and non-canonical signaling are discussed and the function of Notch signaling in physiological and pathological contexts are elucidated. This book is not only intended for experts but it should also be a useful resource for young, sprouting scientists or interested scientists from other research areas, who may use this book as a stimulating starting point for further discoveries and developments.
Molecular Mechanisms of Photosynthesis
by Robert E. BlankenshipMolecular Mechanisms of Photosynthesis stands as an ideal introduction to this subject. Robert Blankenship, a leading authority in photosynthesis research, offers a modern approach to photosynthesis in this accessible and well-illustrated text. The book provides a concise overview of the basic principles of energy storage and the history of the field, then progresses into more advanced topics such as electron transfer pathways, kinetics, genetic manipulations, and evolution. Throughout, Blankenship includes an interdisciplinary emphasis that makes this book appealing across fields. Leading authority in Photosynthesis and the the President of the International Society of Photosynthesis Research. First authoritative text to enter the market in 10 years. Stresses an interdisciplinary approach, which appeals to all science students. Emphasizes the recent advances in molecular structures and mechanisms. Only text to contain comprehensive coverage of both bacterial and plant photosynthesis. Includes the latest insights and research on structural information, improved spectroscopic techniques as well as advances in biochemical and genetic methods. Presents the most extensive treatment of the Origin and evolution of photosynthesis. Comprehensive appendix, which includes a detailed introduction to the physical basis of photosynthesis, including thermodynamics, kinetics and spectroscopy.
Molecular Mechanisms of Photosynthesis
by Robert E. BlankenshipMOLECULAR MECHANISMS OF PHOTOSYNTHESIS Rediscover the foremost introduction to molecular photosynthesis on the market today In the comprehensively revised Third Edition of Molecular Mechanisms of Photosynthesis, distinguished researcher and professor Robert E. Blankenship delivers a brand-new update to the most authoritative textbook on the subject of photosynthesis. In addition to thorough coverage of foundational topics in photosynthesis, the book discusses cutting-edge advances in research in this area, including new structures and new information about the mechanism of oxygen production. The author also describes advancements in the understanding of the regulation of photosynthesis and the critical process of photoprotection, as well as newly discovered pigments and organisms that extend oxygenic photosynthesis deeper into the near infrared spectral region. Readers will also benefit from the inclusion of a fulsome appendix that incorporates a detailed introduction to the physical basis of photosynthesis, including thermodynamics, kinetics, and spectroscopy. A companion website offers downloadable figures as PowerPoint slides ideal for teaching. The book also includes: Thorough introductions to the basic principles of photosynthetic energy storage, photosynthetic organisms and organelles, and the history and early development of photosynthesisAn expansive discussion of photosynthetic pigments, including their structure and spectroscopyExplorations of antenna complexes, energy transfer processes, reaction centers, and electron transport pathways in anoxygenic phototrophs and oxygenic photosynthetic organismsComprehensive treatments of chemiosmotic coupling, ATP synthesis, and carbon metabolismAuthoritative discussions of the evolution of photosynthesis and artificial photosynthesis Perfect for advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate students in biochemistry and biophysics, Molecular Mechanisms of Photosynthesis will also earn a place in the libraries of students studying plant biology and seeking a one-stop resource in the field of molecular photosynthesis.
Molecular Mechanisms of Photosynthesis
by Robert E. BlankenshipMolecular Mechanisms of Photosynthesis stands as an ideal introduction to this subject. Robert Blankenship, a leading authority in photosynthesis research, offers a modern approach to photosynthesis in this accessible and well-illustrated text. The book provides a concise overview of the basic principles of energy storage and the history of the field, then progresses into more advanced topics such as electron transfer pathways, kinetics, genetic manipulations, and evolution. Throughout, Blankenship includes an interdisciplinary emphasis that makes this book appealing across fields. Leading authority in Photosynthesis and the the President of the International Society of Photosynthesis Research. First authoritative text to enter the market in 10 years. Stresses an interdisciplinary approach, which appeals to all science students. Emphasizes the recent advances in molecular structures and mechanisms. Only text to contain comprehensive coverage of both bacterial and plant photosynthesis. Includes the latest insights and research on structural information, improved spectroscopic techniques as well as advances in biochemical and genetic methods. Presents the most extensive treatment of the Origin and evolution of photosynthesis. Comprehensive appendix, which includes a detailed introduction to the physical basis of photosynthesis, including thermodynamics, kinetics and spectroscopy.
Molecular Mechanisms of Proton-coupled Electron Transfer and Water Oxidation in Photosystem II (Springer Theses)
by Shin NakamuraThe book reviews photosynthetic water oxidation and proton-coupled electron transfer in photosystem, focusing on the molecular vibrations of amino acid residues and water molecules. Photosynthetic water oxidation performed by plants and cyanobacteria is essential for the sustenance of life on Earth, not only as an electron source for synthesizing sugars from CO2, but also as an O2 source in the atmosphere. Water oxidation takes place at the Mn4CaO5 cluster in photosystem II, where a series of electron transfer reactions coupled with proton transfer occur using light energy. The author addresses the unresolved mechanisms of photosynthetic water oxidation and relevant proton-coupled electron transfer reactions using a combined approach of experimental and computational methods such as Fourier transform infrared difference spectroscopy and quantum chemical calculations. The results show that protonation and hydrogen-bond structures of water molecules and amino acid residues in the protein play important roles in regulation of the electron and proton transfer reactions. These findings and the methodology make a significant contribution to our understanding the molecular mechanism of photosynthetic water oxidation.