This book presents the basic results on studies of the interaction of anti-cancer Actinomycin antibiotics with DNA. It focuses on interactions of heterocyclic anti-tumour antibiotics (Actinomycins, as typical example) with DNA, poly-nucleotides, oligonucleotides, and aggregates of purines, using spectroscopic methods. Experimental data, various models of structures of the complexes and their physical and chemical properties are described, and possible approaches for delivery of heterocyclic antibiotics to DNA are also discussed.

Telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein enzyme that catalyses the cellular synthesis of telomeric DNA during cellular division, resulting in maintenance of telomere length and increased proliferative potential. Several studies suggest that the telomerase may play an important role in the diagnosis and prognosis of cancer because its expression strongly correlates with the potential tumour progression. Ninety percent of human cancers on different organs have shown high telomerasa activity. This book reviews research in the field of telomerase including functions of telomerase independent of its interaction with telomeres on gene expression and chromatin structure; histone deacetylase inhibition as an anticancer telomerase-targeting strategy and others.

Organic europium complexes are of considerable interest due to their sharp narrow emission spectrum and potentially high emission quantum efficiency, originated from 2D0-7F2 electronic transitions of the central ions. Therefore, organic europium complexes have well applications in organic light-emitting diodes. Furthermore, organic europium complexes also show well electrical switching characteristics in diodes, potential applications as memory devices in information storage. This book reviews the achieved progresses in organic europium complexes and their applications in organic light-emitting diodes and memory devices.

Genome stability of every species depends on complex interaction of predefined and environmentally induced genetic and epigenetic states. Predefined states consist of chromatin structure and cell metabolic processes such as DNA repair, radical scavenging and cell signalling, whereas induced states depend on interactions with the environment. Organisms are able to respond to a changing environment by various alterations in their somatic cells as well as in their germline and progeny. In this book, we will describe various phenomena associated with the maintenance of genome stability. These include genetic and epigenetic responses to various stresses in exposed cells and organisms, bystander and, bystander-like effects, transgenerational changes in genome stability and stress tolerance in bacteria, plants and animals.

On September 11, 2001, 2,792 people were killed in terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center (WTC) in New York City. The number of victims, the condition of their remains, and the duration of the recovery effort made the identification of the victims the most difficult ever undertaken by the forensic community in this country. In response to this need, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), the research, development, and evaluation agency of the U.S. Department of Justice, brought together a group of experts to provide advice and support throughout the identification effort. Called the Kinship and Data Analysis Panel (KADAP), the group made recommendations on new forensic technologies, tools, policies, and procedures to help identify those who perished in the WTC attack. This book contains the KADAP's "lessons learned," particularly regarding DNA protocols, laboratory techniques, and statistical approaches, in the DNA identification of WTC victims. It is written primarily for the Nation's forensic laboratory directors and other officials who may be responsible for organising and managing the DNA identification response to a mass fatality incident. This book discusses the incorporation of DNA identification into a mass fatality disaster plan, including how to: Establish laboratory policies and procedures, including the creation of sample collection documents. Assess the magnitude of an identification effort, and identify and acquire resources to respond.

Ribonucleotide reductase (RNR), a universal enzyme present in essentially all living cells and organisms, has a central role in DNA replication and repair by catalysing production of deoxyribonucleotides from the corresponding ribonucleotides. Three major classes of RNRs are known, differing in their cofactor requirements: class I RNRs (with subclasses Ia and Ib) carry a stable tyrosyl radical and are oxygen-dependent, class II RNRs require the vitamin B12 cofactor 5'-deoxyadenosylcobalamin and are oxygen-independent, and class III RNRs carry a stable glycyl radical and are oxygen-sensitive. Despite these differences, all classes have a similar reaction mechanism and the same highly specific catalytic core structure, indicating that they evolved from a common ancestor. Biochemical studies of RNRs from selected model organisms in combination with the vast number of deduced RNR sequences from publicly available complete genomic sequences show that whereas eukaryotes and their viruses with few exceptions contain only class Ia RNRs, all three major RNR classes are found among prokaryotes and bacteriophages and quite often one organism encodes more than one class of RNR. They are compiled in an open access database, called RNRdb for Ribonucleotide Reductase database that is available at http://rnrdb.molbio.su.se. RNRs are produced in a strictly controlled way depending upon growth phase and environmental cues. The authors describe a comprehensive summary of how the expression of RNR genes is regulated in several eubacterial organisms and in yeast. Due to RNR's importance for the realisation of DNA replication, it has been recognised as a possible target for antiproliferative therapy. The authors present a comprehensive summary of RNR-specific inhibitors that have reached clinical trials and/or are currently used in clinical therapy.

DNA damage, due to environmental factors and normal metabolic processes inside the cell, occurs at a rate of 1,000 to 1,000,000 molecular lesions per cell per day. While this constitutes only 0.000165% of the human genome's approximately 6 billion bases (3 billion base pairs), unrepaired lesions in critical genes (such as tumour suppresser genes) can impede a cell's ability to carry out its function and appreciably increase the likelihood of tumour formation. The vast majority of DNA damage affects the primary structure of the double helix; that is, the bases themselves are chemically modified. These modifications can in turn disrupt the molecules' regular helical structure by introducing non-native chemical bonds or bulky adducts that do not fit in the standard double helix. Unlike proteins and RNA, DNA usually lacks tertiary structure and therefore damage or disturbance does not occur at that level. DNA is, however, supercoiled and wound around "packaging" proteins called histones (in eukaryotes), and both superstructures are vulnerable to the effects of DNA damage. This book presents the latest research in the field.

As a major defence against environmental damage to cells DNA repair is present in all organisms including bacteria, yeast, drosophila, fish, amphibians, rodents and humans. DNA repair is involved in processes that minimise cell killing, mutations, replication errors, persistence of DNA damage and genomic instability. Abnormalities in these processes have been implicated in cancer and ageing. This book presents leading-edge research from around the world in this frontal field.

The advancement of DNA sequencing technologies has resulted in a movement away from the single gene, and towards a whole genome focus. Previously DNA sequencing was expensive, slow and tedious, but new technologies have been developed that facilitate the relatively cheap and rapid generation of raw sequence from whole bacterial genomes. The sequencing of the human genome was also accelerated in the final phases as a result of new sequencing methods. However, generating the raw sequence is just the start, and tools are required to convert it into useful biological knowledge. This book highlights the new advances in DNA sequencing, and summarises the process of genome and protein annotation. The book also describes the tools required to achieve this, and provides examples within the context of specific genomes.

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is a chemical found primarily in the nucleus of cells. DNA is a long, spiralling molecule that orchestrates the cell's daily operations and provides the genetic blueprint for the physical characteristics of all living organisms. It is the molecule that encodes genetic information in the nucleus of cells. It determines the structure, function and behaviour of the cell. DNA is made up of two complementary strands, the strands intertwine like a spiral staircase to form a structure called a double helix. Subunits, called bases, are the rungs of the staircase. The four nucleotides in DNA contain the bases: adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T). This book presents leading-edge research in this dynamic field.

Gene silencing is a general term describing epigenetic processes of gene regulation. The term gene silencing is generally used to describe the 'switching off' of a gene by a mechanism other than genetic mutation. That is, a gene which would be expressed (turned on) under normal circumstances, is switched off by machinery in the cell. Genes are regulated at either the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level. Transcriptional gene silencing is the result of histone modifications, creating an environment of heterochromatin around a gene that makes it inaccessible to transcriptional machinery (RNA polymerase, transcription factors, etc.). Post-transcriptional gene silencing is the result of mRNA of a particular gene being destroyed. The destruction of the mRNA prevents translation to form an active gene product (in most cases, a protein). A common mechanism of post-transcriptional gene silencing is RNAi. Both transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene silencing are used to regulate endogenous genes. This book presents the latest research in this important field.

Genomics is the study of the entire human genome. Genomics explores not only the actions of single genes, but also the interactions of multiple genes with each other and with the environment. As a result, genomics has great potential for improving the health of the public. However, realizing the benefits of genomics requires a systematic evaluation of its potential contributions and an understanding of the information necessary to facilitate the translation of research findings into public health strategies. In October 2004, the Institute of Medicine convened a workshop to discuss major scientific and policy issues related to genomics and public health, examine major supports for and challenges to the translation of genetic research into population health benefits, and suggest approaches for the integration of genomic information into strategies for promoting health and preventing disease. Implications of Genomics for Public Health summarizes the discussions and presentations from this workshop. Table of Contents Front Matter 1 Introduction 2 Workshop Presentations 3 Priorities Appendix A: Glossary Appendix B: Biosketches Appendix C: Workshop Agenda

This two-volume set provides a general overview of the evolution of the human genome; The first volume overviews the human genome with descriptions of important gene groups. This second volume provides up-to-date, concise yet ample knowledge on the genome evolution of modern humans. It comprises twelve chapters divided into two parts discussing "Non-neutral Evolution on Human Genes" (Part I) and "Evolution of Modern Human Populations" (Part II.) The most significant feature of this book is the continent-wise discussion of modern human dispersal using human genomic data in Part II. Recent results such as introgression of paleogenomes to modern humans, new methods such as computer simulation of global human dispersals, and new information on genes for humanness will be of particular interest to the readers. Since the euchromatin regions of the human genome was sequenced in 2003, a huge number of research papers were published on modern human evolution for a variety of populations. It is now time to summarize these achievements. This book stands out as the most comprehensive book on the modern human evolution, focusing on genomic points of view with a broad scope. Primary target audiences are researchers and graduate students in evolutionary biology.

MiRNA is an extremely fast growing field, and miRNA knowledge is now believed to be a pivotal element of cancer biology. It is already evident that the discovery of miRNA has created a paradigm shift in post-genomics biology, not only for scientists accustomed to traditional central dogma of molecular biology but also for researchers studying human diseases and accustomed to traditional genetics approach of studying one gene at the time. This book provides an introduction to the basic principles of miRNA biology, overview of miRNA significance in the hallmarks of cancer, experimental techniques used in miRNA research, and in special part - miRNAs importance in wide range of solid cancers with a special focus on its potential usage in molecular pathology, predictive oncology or as a novel therapeutic targets.

An important problem in computational biology is identifying short DNA sequences (mathematically, 'words') associated to a biological function. One approach consists in determining whether a particular word is simply random or is of statistical significance, for example, because of its frequency or location. This book introduces the mathematical and statistical ideas used in solving this so-called exceptional word problem. It begins with a detailed description of the principal models used in sequence analysis: Markovian models are central here and capture compositional information on the sequence being analysed. There follows an introduction to several statistical methods that are used for finding exceptional words with respect to the model used. The second half of the book is illustrated with numerous examples provided from the analysis of bacterial genomes, making this a practical guide for users facing a real situation and needing to make an adequate procedure choice.

In situ gene amplification techniques offer tremendous potential as aids to clinical diagnosis through their ability to detect a single copy of a specific microbial, neoplastic, messenger, or mutated nucleic acid sequence in a cell smear, cell suspension, tissue section, or chromosome. In situ hybridization, applied in combination with the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), can be expected to fuel accelerated developments in the understanding of embryogenesis, organogenesis, and cell differentiation, as well as the pathogenesis of numerous disease processes. But the procedures are cumbersome and fraught with potential variables, and experimental results are difficult to reproduce.
In Situ PCR Techniques addresses this problem directly, with comprehensive step-by-step protocols for the delineation of genetic amplification and histological detection techniques. Each procedure has been tested and validated for its sensitivity, precision, and reproducibility, and the authors give advice on the design of primers for PCR applications and on optimizing these protocols for use with plant, insect, and prokaryotic cells. They facilitate the repetition of published experiments by providing the kinds of hints, tips, and laboratory secrets that are often left out of scientific papers. They also demonstrate clearly and thoroughly the efficacy of in situ PCR as an alternative to standard and fluorescence in situ hybridization for detecting a single copy of a mutant gene, a virus, or a very low-abundance message in individual cells, while preserving the morphology of the cell and the tissue in which it resides.
Topics covered include:
* A review of the in situ PCR technique
*Step-by-step protocols for in situ PCR techniques
* Optimization of annealing temperatures for specific primers
* Preparation of glass slides and tissues
* Selection of DNA and RNA targets
Supplemented with numerous helpful graphics and illustrations, In Situ PCR Techniques is immensely useful, not merely to the novice, but also to experienced researchers in investigative pathology, virology, and gene therapy, as well as in developmental biology, immunology, plant molecular biology, entomology, and the neurosciences.

This book introduces a discrete optimisation technique in four applications: classic Traveller Salesperson Problem (TSP), Multilocus Genetic Mapping, Multilocus Consensus Genetic Mapping, and Physical Mapping. Each of the four sections contains the problem formulation, description of the algorithm, and experimental results. The foregoing problems are solved on the basis of Guided Evolution Strategy (GES) algorithm. The algorithm was implemented in MultiPoint package (http://multiqtl.com). The developed analytical tools were applied in many genome mapping projects.

RNA-based Regulation in Human Health and Disease offers an in-depth exploration of RNA mediated genome regulation at different hierarchies. Beginning with multitude of canonical and non-canonical RNA populations, especially noncoding RNA in human physiology and evolution, further sections examine the various classes of RNAs (from small to large noncoding and extracellular RNAs), functional categories of RNA regulation (RNA-binding proteins, alternative splicing, RNA editing, antisense transcripts and RNA G-quadruplexes), dynamic aspects of RNA regulation modulating physiological homeostasis (aging), role of RNA beyond humans, tools and technologies for RNA research (wet lab and computational) and future prospects for RNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics. One of the core strengths of the book includes spectrum of disease-specific chapters from experts in the field highlighting RNA-based regulation in metabolic & neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, inflammatory disease, viral and bacterial infections. We hope the book helps researchers, students and clinicians appreciate the role of RNA-based regulation in genome regulation, aiding the development of useful biomarkers for prognosis, diagnosis, and novel RNA-based therapeutics.

In Managing Health in the Genomic Era: A Guide to Family Health History and Disease Risk, Drs. Vincent C. Henrich, Lori A. Orlando, and Brian H. Shirts discuss the practical considerations surrounding the use of genomic and genetic tests to manage patient health, to provide adult disease risk assessment, to improve diagnosis, and to support effective interventions and treatment. In 10 chapters, evidence-based information and case studies are described and examine the central place of family health history (FHH) in genomic medicine, tools and strategies for compiling and analyzing family health history, how to identify existing and novel genetic markers, how to identify lineage specific (or rare) variants within families, and how to find effective interventions based on genetic testing results and FHH. Factors that influence clinical practice, including gene-environment interactions, FHH social networking, direct to consumer (DTC) genetic testing and data sharing, algorithms for analyzing genetic data, and patient counseling are discussed from the standpoint of clinical practice. Here, frontline healthcare providers will discover succinct commentary and key examples to assist with their local needs. Relevant principles of genetic biology and inheritance are explored and guidance on available support networks and online resources is also provided.

Developmental and Fetal Origins of Differences in Monozygotic Twins: From Genetics to Environmental Factors examines the major causes of discordance in monozygotic twins, from genetic, to environmental influences, including discussions on the genetic, epigenetic, fetal and environmental factors. Twin differences discussed include malformations, deformations and disruptions secondary to inequitable division of the early embryo, chromosome and single gene mosaicism, Nonrandom X chromosome inactivation, mitochondrial heteroplasmy, epigenetic variation, and variable and inequitable blood supply, among other influences. Differences in hemoglobin levels, placentation and amniotic fluid are also examined, while full color images illustrate discordant anomalies and twin differences throughout.

Fixing Your Damaged and Incorrect Genes is a book about a well-established biological process called DNA REPAIR. The book describes the multiple and varied biochemical strategies by which damaged or incorrect nucleotides are removed from DNA or are corrected. The book includes multiple figures of notable past and present scientists in the field. The book is uniquely focused on an audience of non-biologists and is written in simple language with minimal use of technical terms. It contains an extensive glossary that provides explanations of key words that readers are encouraged to refer to as they read. Fixing Your Damaged and Incorrect Genes is unique, there being no previously published books for non-biologists on the topic of DNA repair.

The purpose of this primer is to provide students, teachers as well as academic and industry researchers with a succinct account of the chemical and structural features of chromatin and the role that these features play in the maintenance and function of the genetic material.It is universally accepted that DNA is the carrier of the genetic information that is transmitted from parents to their offspring and that it is responsible for the anatomy, physiology and behavior of all individuals throughout development and adult life. Yet, how this information is retrieved and used selectively to allow a fertilized egg to become an organism made up of myriads of different cells and tissues is not as evident and easily understood.Dr Lucchesi, an internationally known researcher and teacher, provides an easily opened window into the role that the complex of proteins and nucleic acids that are associated with the DNA play in mediating gene expression and in responding to environmental circumstances.

The purpose of this primer is to provide students, teachers as well as academic and industry researchers with a succinct account of the chemical and structural features of chromatin and the role that these features play in the maintenance and function of the genetic material.It is universally accepted that DNA is the carrier of the genetic information that is transmitted from parents to their offspring and that it is responsible for the anatomy, physiology and behavior of all individuals throughout development and adult life. Yet, how this information is retrieved and used selectively to allow a fertilized egg to become an organism made up of myriads of different cells and tissues is not as evident and easily understood.Dr Lucchesi, an internationally known researcher and teacher, provides an easily opened window into the role that the complex of proteins and nucleic acids that are associated with the DNA play in mediating gene expression and in responding to environmental circumstances.

With humor, depth, and philosophical and historical insight, "DNA" reaches out to a wide range of readers with its graphic portrayal of a complicated science. Suitable for use in and out of the classroom, this volume covers DNA's many marvels, from its original discovery in 1869 to early-twentieth-century debates on the mechanisms of inheritance and the deeper nature of life's evolution and variety.

Even readers who lack a background in science and philosophy will learn a tremendous amount from this engaging narrative. The book elucidates DNA's relationship to health and the cause and cure of disease. It also covers the creation of new life forms, nanomachines, and perspectives on crime detection, and considers the philosophical sources of classical Darwinian theory and recent, radical changes in the understanding of evolution itself. Already these developments have profoundly affected our notions about living things. Borin Van Loon's humorous illustrations recount the contributions of Gregor Mendel, Frederick Griffith, James Watson, and Francis Crick, among other biologists, scientists, and researchers, and vividly depict the modern controversies surrounding the Human Genome Project and cloning.

This volume contains a compilation of techniques and laboratory protocols directly related to RNA nano technology and its applications in nano biotechnology and nano medicine. The chapters in this book cover a wide range of research methods that can be easily comprehended and carried out in a step-by-step manner by graduate students and postdoctoral fellows from diverse scientific disciplines. Some of the covered topics include various biochemical, biophysical and bioinformatics approaches for analyzing RNA structures and properties; methods to analyze the multi-step assembly process of RNA nano architectures; purification of multifunctional RNA nanoparticles by ultracentrifugation and HPLC; real-time detection of RNA nano constructs in vivo; conjugation of imaging, targeting and therapeutic modules to RNA scaffold; and design and characterization of RNA-protein nanostructures. Written in the highly successful Methods of 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 key tips on troubles troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Cutting-edge and practical, RNA Nanotechnology and Therapeutics: Methods and Protocols propels the field toward new heights by engaging researchers working in the diverse fields of physical, engineering, and life sciences.