"Apoptosome" is the first book that presents a concise synthesis of recent developments in the understanding of how the activation of the cell death cascade is handled by a cytosolic signalling platform known as the apoptosome.

The book also discusses how insights into the regulation of apoptosome may be exploited for designing new drugs aimed at interfere with a plethora of pathogenetic processes involved in human diseases.

The authors emphasize novel translational approaches that are rapidly moving from the laboratory bench top to the patient's bedside for the future treatment of diseases associated with apoptosis.

This book will be a valuable resource for researchers investigating the role of apoptosome-dependent cell death in cancer and other diseases, for researchers investigating the molecular mechanism of chemotherapeutic agents and drug-resistance and for physicians using chemotherapeutic agents. Additionally, this book will be an important educational source for PhD students and MD students specializing in molecular and cell biology, and to anybody interested in science, medicine, as well as in recent developments of the ideas and concepts of the molecular biology of programmed cell death.

Candida species are important human pathogens that are best known for causing opportunist infections in immunocompromised hosts (e.g. transplant patients, AIDS sufferers, cancer patients). Infections are difficult to treat and can be very serious. 30-40% of systemic infections result in death. The sequencing of the genome of C. albicans and those of several other medically-relevant Candida species has provided a major impetus for Candida comparative and functional genomic analyses. These have provided a fascinating insight into the molecular and cellular biology of these fungi, and these should pave the way for the development of more sensitive diagnostic strategies and novel antifungal therapies. In this timely book, international experts provide comprehensive and authoritative reviews of these important organisms. The topics covered include: genome dynamics of C. albicans; molecular, epidemiological, and population studies of C. albicans; the parasexual cycle in C. albicans; compara

High Performance Computational Methods for Biological Sequence Analysis presents biological sequence analysis using an interdisciplinary approach that integrates biological, mathematical and computational concepts. These concepts are presented so that computer scientists and biomedical scientists can obtain the necessary background for developing better algorithms and applying parallel computational methods. This book will enable both groups to develop the depth of knowledge needed to work in this interdisciplinary field. This work focuses on high performance computational approaches that are used to perform computationally intensive biological sequence analysis tasks: pairwise sequence comparison, multiple sequence alignment, and sequence similarity searching in large databases. These computational methods are becoming increasingly important to the molecular biology community allowing researchers to explore the increasingly large amounts of sequence data generated by the Human Genome Project and other related biological projects. The approaches presented by the authors are state-of-the-art and show how to reduce analysis times significantly, sometimes from days to minutes. High Performance Computational Methods for Biological Sequence Analysis is tremendously important to biomedical science students and researchers who are interested in applying sequence analyses to their studies, and to computational science students and researchers who are interested in applying new computational approaches to biological sequence analyses.

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 of the 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.

The Chlamydomonas Sourcebook: Introduction to Chlamydomonas and Its Laboratory Use, Volume One, Third Edition has been fully revised and updated to include a wealth of new resources for the Chlamydomonas community (new mutant libraries, new omics studies, and potentially more information about different Chlamydomonas species in the environment). In addition to updates on molecular techniques and analysis of the sequenced genome, the book presents the latest in research and best practices for applications in research, including methods for culture, preservation of cultures, preparation of media, and more.

The Chlamydomonas Sourcebook, Third Edition, Volume Three: Cell Motility and Behavior has been fully revised and updated to include the wealth of new resources for the Chlamydomonas community. The book presents the latest advances in the area from an international array of expert authors, reflecting significant advancements in our understanding of the role of basal bodies and flagella in human diseases. In addition, employing quantitative proteomics/mass spectroscopy as well as cryo EM tomography and single particle cryo EM has revolutionized our knowledge of the axoneme in terms of the location of proteins and their interactions. Current insights on mitosis and cytokinesis, flagellar assembly and motility, intraflagellar transport, and more will ensure use of this reference as a guide for understanding human diseases of the cilium.

Principles of Genomics and Proteomics is the perfect reference for graduate students and researchers in these areas to understand its principles and execute precise and reproducible experiments. Following an introductory chapter, the book dives into proper research, including genome mapping. Experiments covered in the book span from Sangers Sequencing, Shotgun sequencing, SAGE analysis, DNA footprinting, Gel retardation, ChIP, and protein resolution methods, including PAGE, 2D gel electrophoresis and isoelectric focusing. Biophysical techniques are also described in detail, including ultraviolet and visible light spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, NMR and X-ray diffraction. A final proteome analysis is dedicated to functional analysis. Other chapters cover applications of omics technologies broadly. This book is the perfect reference for genetics labs around the world. Graduate students will benefit from the structured and detailed coverage of methods and established researchers will benefit from the book for staff training in research and may find it particularly helpful in enhancing reproducibility of experiments.

This volume provides an overview on the influence of Extracellular Matrix (ECM) on tumor progression. It covers topics such as signaling induced by structural ECM proteins including collagen and fibronectin, the control of ECM deposition and the turnover in tumors. Also discussed are the migration of cells through basement membranes and the function of proteoglycans including lumican and veriscan in tumor progression. Biomaterial-based in-vitro models as well as C. elegans models of the tumor microenvironment are used to show how these models can lead to a greater understanding of the disease mechanisms that promote cancer progression. The book addresses researchers working on cancer biology or ECM, and oncologists alike.

This book is concernced with the process of cell death in human cells by programmed cell death or apoptosis, and the modulation of this process by drugs. This is a new field of study and this volume represents the first comprehensive treatment of this subject matter. Its focus is on human biology and medicine. Apoptosis is a very prevalent type of cell death with importance in human diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's disease and autoimmune disorders. The book combines the expertise of leading scientists and writers from fields as diverse as neurosciences, immunology, pathology and cancer research. There is detailed analysis of the molecular and cellular aspects of apoptosis including the specific genes and molecules involved in the regulation of this special form of programmed cell death. Scientists, clinicians and researchers involved in studies of human biology and medicine will find this book an excellent resource.

This detailed collection provides an accessible compendium of up-to-date methods focused on the study of RNAi and small regulatory miRNAs in stem cells. Beginning with a brief introductory section, the volume continues by exploring methods and protocols for RNAi screening, transfection, and the knockdown of specific genes and pathways in several animal species, including humans and mice, recently developed methods for miRNA expression and functional analysis, as well as usage of CRISPR/Cas 9 to knockout an individual gene for functional studies. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, list of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Practical and authoritative, RNAi and Small Regulatory RNAs in Stem Cells: Methods and Protocols aims to accelerate progress in this crucial field by reducing the time required to decipher and put into practice procedures published in the literature.

Colorectal cancer has for more than two decades served as the paradigm for the multi-step concept of cancer initiation and progression. Perhaps more than any other organ site, cancer of the colon is extensively characterized at the molecular level. We are now entering a time when molecular classification, rather than histologic classification, of cancer subtypes is driving the development of clinical trials with emerging targeted therapies. The book will focus on the progression from the identification of mutations that drive colorectal cancer initiation and progression to the search for novel therapies to treat the disease.

This volume explores methods used to examine the structure-function relationship of glucose transporters both in vitro and ex vivo. Chapters in this book cover topics such as expression and purification of glucose transporters in heterologous expression systems, crystal structure determination, glucose transport activity assays in cellular and synthetic model systems, investigation of the GLUT4 membrane trafficking machinery by novel labeling strategies combined with advanced fluorescence microscopy methods, and tracking GLUT2 translocation by live cell imaging. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Cutting-edge and comprehensive, Glucose Transport: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource that helps researchers with determining specific roles of different GLUTs in various organisms.

The role of free radicals and oxidative stress in neurological disorders has only recently been recognized, leaving clinical neurologists to seek in vain for information on the subject even in major textbooks. What published information there is may consist of brief reminders of the possible association of superoxidase dismutase with familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and nitrous oxide with migraine. With luck they may also find information on the purported role of free radicals in the pathogenesis of traumatic brain injury. Oxidative Stress and Free Radical Damage in Neurology sets the record straight, focusing on clinical and research issues regarding the interplay of free radicals and the human nervous system. Crucially, the chapters cover numerous antioxidants and their possible therapeutic role in neurological disorders. Key illnesses such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's are analyzed, and chapters also examine more general issues such as the link between free radicals and inflammation of the central nervous system. Clinicians and laboratory researchers alike will find that this book augments their understanding not only of the widespread involvement of free radicals in the central nervous system but also of some uncertainties surrounding whether free radical damage in neurology plays a primary or secondary role.

The interaction of tissue and synthetic material can be the pivotal element in the artificial replacement of a body part damaged by disease or trauma. Hip replacements, dental implants, pacemaker leads, vascular grafts, heart valves, and dialysis machines all involve microscopic, tissue-level events that determine the success or failure of such devices. An Introduction to Tissue-Biomaterial Interactions acquaints an undergraduate audience with the fundamental biological processes that influence these sophisticated, cutting-edge procedures.

Chapters one through three provide more detail about the molecular-level events that happen at the tissue-implant interface, while chapters four through ten explore selected material, biological, and physiological consequences of these events. The importance of the body’s wound-healing response is emphasized throughout. Specific topics covered include:

• Structure and properties of biomaterials
• Proteins
• Protein-surface interactions
• Blood-biomaterial interactions
• Inflammation and infection
• The immune system
• Biomaterial responses to implantation
• Biomaterial surface engineering
• Intimal hyperplasia and osseointegration as examples of tissue-biomaterial interactions

The text also provides extensive coverage of the three pertinent interfaces between the body and the biomaterial, between the body and the living cells, and between the cells and the biomaterial that are critical in the development of tissue-engineered products that incorporate living cells within a biomaterial matrix.

Ideal for a one-semester, biomedical engineering course, An Introduction to Tissue-Biomaterial Interactions provides a solid framework for understanding today’s and tomorrow’s implantable biomedical devices.

This textbook discusses the systemic consequences of cancer, covering a range of topics from tumor-promoting systemic effects to the development of cachexia, as summarized in the introductory chapter 1. Part I of this textbook focuses on tumor-promoting systemic effects and begins with a chapter on how tumor-derived extracellular vesicles and particles lay the foundation for future metastases (Chapter 2). Chapter 3 discusses how metastatic cells that have colonized the bone impact the local bone microenvironment, neighboring muscles, and host physiology. Chapter 4 summarizes the available strategies for targeting metastatic cancer and emphasizes the need to incorporate a systemic view of the disease. Following this overview of the systemic effects of cancer progression, Part II of the textbook discusses cancer-induced cachexia, a debilitating systemic effect of advanced cancer. Chapters 5-7 examine the key signaling pathways (interleukin-6/GP130, NF-kB, and muscle proteolysis) that drive the development of cancer cachexia. Chapters 8 and 9 in Part III of this textbook explore how toxicities from anti-cancer therapy are associated with the onset of cachexia in cancer patients, and provide insight into potential approaches to simultaneously target both cancer and cachexia. Chapters 10 and 11 (Part IV) conclude this textbook by outlining promising approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of cachexia as well as strategies to prevent the development of cachexia through exercise. An understanding of the systemic effects of cancer is essential for the design of effective anti-cancer and anti-cachexia treatment strategies. As such, this textbook provides key information for both students and scientists engaged in cancer research and oncology.

This book provides the readers with an overview of research on p53, which has been shown to play a role in numerous crucial biological pathways in normal and cancer cells. Leading scientist in the field, who have all made direct contributions to the understanding of the molecular events underpinning p53 function, have been invited to contribute the various chapters, which discuss the current knowledge of the signaling cascades that are activated by mutations in p53 and overexpression of MDM2, frequently found in human cancer and are major causes of oncogenesis.

This book features chapters on the molecular basis of oncogenesis induced by gain of function mutation of p53, signaling pathways induced by MDM2 overexpression, control of mutant or wild-type p53 function by MDM2 and MDMX, p53 mutation in hereditary cancer and structural aspects that activate mutant p53 which can be targeted by drug therapy. This book should be useful for scientists at all levels.

Much research has focused on the basic cellular and molecular biological aspects of stem cells. Much of this research has been fueled by their potential for use in regenerative medicine applications, which has in turn spurred growing numbers of translational and clinical studies. However, more work is needed if the potential is to be realized for improvement of the lives and well-being of patients with numerous diseases and conditions.This book series 'Cell Biology and Translational Medicine (CBTMED)' as part of Springer Nature's longstanding and very successful Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology book series, has the goal to accelerate advances by timely information exchange. Emerging areas of regenerative medicine and translational aspects of stem cells are covered in each volume. Outstanding researchers are recruited to highlight developments and remaining challenges in both the basic research and clinical arenas. This current book is the 14th volume of a continuing series.

This new edition describes the role of heat shock proteins in the life cycle of malaria parasites, particularly in the context of intracellular parasite stages. Thoroughly revised, this work provides a general introduction to the structural and functional features of heat shock proteins with a special focus on their role as molecular chaperones in ensuring protein quality control. The emphasis is on the heat shock protein families from Plasmodium falciparum, and their role in proteostasis and the development of malaria pathology. Moreover, the authors explore the latest prospects of targeting heat shock proteins in antimalarial drug discovery either directly or in combination therapies. Readers will experience a functional analysis of the individual families of heat shock proteins and their cooperation in functional networks, including both the parasite-resident proteome and the exportome released into host cells during intracellular stages. Subcellular and extracellular organelles such as the apicoplast and the Maurer's Clefts associated with Plasmodium species are discussed in detail. The book highlights the role of heat shock proteins in the development and function of these structures. Biochemical expertise and the inclusion of novel therapeutic solutions make this collection a unique reference for experts in heat shock protein research, parasitology and infectious diseases, cell stress, molecular biology and drug discovery. Not least, advances in malaria control will contribute to ending epidemics and ensuring healthy lives in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

This detailed volume explores techniques for researching brown adipose tissue (BAT) and the fascinating biology and therapeutic potential of thermogenic adipocytes. The content reflects the advancing technologies in genetics, imaging, and 'omics strategies that are allowing researchers to probe BAT biology at unprecedented depths and detail, yet it also presents classic physiology principles, which remain the core tenets of BAT biology. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Brown Adipose Tissue: Methods and Protocols provides perspectives and detailed protocols for the benefit of both new BAT researchers looking for guidance as well as seasoned researchers who would like to expand their toolkits. Chapter 12 is available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com.

Plants are composed of 17 essential and at least 5 beneficial elements, and these must be taken up as metal or nutrient ions to allow for growth and cell division. Much effort has been devoted to studying the physiology and biochemistry of metals and nutrients in plants. The aspect of cell biology, however, is an emerging new field and much needs to be learned about sensing, long-distance communication within plants, and cellular signal transduction chains in response to environmental stress. Cellular malfunction and consequently disease result when any of the key steps in metal and nutrient homeostasis are disrupted. Working together, leading experts in their respective fields provide a new concept that reaches beyond plant nutrition and plasmalemma transport into cellular physiology. Each chapter contains basic information on uptake, physiological function, deficiency and toxicity syndromes, long-distance and intracellular transport. The discussion is devoted to metals and nutrients where recent progress has been made and highlights the aspects of homeostasis and sensing, signaling and regulation, drawing parallels to other organisms including humans. Finally, the book identifies gaps in our current knowledge and lays out future research directions. Content Level Research

Bacillus subtilis is one of the best understood prokaryotes in terms of molecular biology and cell biology. Its superb genetic amenability and relatively large size have provided powerful tools to investigate a bacterium in all possible aspects. Recent improvements in technology have provided novel and amazing insights into the dynamic structure of this single cell organism. The organism is a model for differentiation, gene/protein regulation, and cell cycle events in bacteria. This book presents an overview of the most recent exciting new research fields and provides a picture of the major cytological aspects of a model bacterium. The authors present the most recent knowledge on topics, such as the replication and segregation of the chromosome, cell division, replication and growth, the cell cycle, transcription, translation, regulation, the actin cyctoskeleton, the cell membrane and cell wall, biofilm formation, and sporulation. Also covered are DNA repair, the regulation of transcri

The book will discuss the molecular mechanisms of cancer diseases, stem cell proliferation and transformation into cancer cells beyond the physiological processes that occur in normal stem cell biology. Some of the key oncogenic events in cancer and their signaling pathways that regulate cell division cycle progression will be described considering prospects for using such knowledge in advanced cancer therapy. Each chapter shall provide an invaluable resource for information on the most current advances in the field, with discussion of controversial issues and areas of emerging importance

This volume details protocols on animal cloning by Somatic cell nuclear transfer for basic research and biotechnological applications. Written in the format of the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, each chapter includes an introduction to the topic, lists necessary materials and methods, includes tips on troubleshooting and known pitfalls, and step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols.   Authoritative and cutting-edge, Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer Technology aims to be comprehensive guide for researchers.

Drosophila, the common fruit fly, is the most extensively studied of all organisms from the standpoint of genetics and cytology. This atlas summarizes what is known about the approximately 100 Drosophila genes for which the complete nucleotide sequence is known. Each entry includes a description of the gene's molecular organization and expression, the complete nucleotide and amino acid sequences, maps of interesting structures, highlights of functional features and promoter regulatory regions, and selected references to the primary literature. A separate section of the atlas considers different aspects of gene organization as they occur in the Drosophila genome. Topics covered include size correlations among various genetic elements, splicing signals, translation initiation signals, and codon bias. The work represents a new milestone in summarizing current information and making it easily accessible to geneticists and biologists.