The marine environment has been, and continues to be, a fruitful source of novel chemical compounds that are not found in terrestrial and freshwater organisms. Many of these substances show potential biomedical applications, which could lead to development of new pharmaceutical products. Research on the utilization of natural products from marine organisms is growing by leaps and bounds; one important reason why being that, investigators, through new diving technologies, are becoming able to explore at greater depths. Studies of these marine natural products include investigations of neuronal membrane-active toxins, ion channel blockers, antitumor and antiviral agents, and anti-inflammatory molecules. This volume is the sixth in the ongoing series.

Nanorobotics and Nanodiagnostics in Integrative Biology and Biomedicine "Nanorobotics and nanodiagnostics" can be defined as a new generation of biohybrid and nanorobotics that translate fundamental biological principles into engineering design rules, or integrative living components into synthetic structures to create biorobots and nanodiagnotics that perform like natural systems. Nanorobots or nanobots are structured of a nanoscale made of individual assemblies. They can be termed as intelligent systems manufactured with self-assembly strategies by chemical, physical and biological approaches. The nanorobot can determine the structure and enhance the adaptability to the environment in interdisciplinary tasks. "Nanorobotics and nanodiagnostics" is a new generation of biohybrid that translates fundamental biological principles into engineering design rules to create biorobots that perform like natural systems. These biorobotics and diagnostics can now perform various missions to be accomplished certain tasks in the research areas such as integrative biology and biomedicine. "Nanorobotics and Nanodiagnostics in Integrative Biology and Biomedicine" sheds light on a comprehensive overview of the multidisciplinary areas that explore nanotherapeutics and nanorobotic manipulation in biology and medicine. It provides up-to-date knowledge of the promising fields of integrative biology and biomedicine for nano-assisted biorobotics and diagnostics to detect and treat diseases that will enable new scientific discoveries.

The book reviews the history, present, and likely future of intellectual property for plant-related inventions. It describes "what works" and "what does not work" in the current situation and analyzes whether the current intellectual property framework will be able to cope with the rise of genome editing/new breeding technologies (especially CRISPR Cas). Based on trend data, the analysis shows that the current system, including stakeholder initiatives, will most likely not be able to adapt to the technology change. It then evaluates different options for legislators to respond and proposes in detail a new holistic IP system which merges elements of the patent and the plant variety protection system into one new system.

The biotechnology industry across the globe is growing dramatically in line with rapidly emerging scientific and technological developments. This book explores both the theoretical and practical aspects of entrepreneurship in the biotechnology industry, focusing on the innovation processes underpinning success for new biotechnology firms (NBFs). It argues that biotechnology is at a crossroads: to date the science has been solid, yet commercial success remains elusive, and that it will be the commercial success of NBFs which will dictate the long term viability of this crucial industry. The authors go on to examine the roles played by both entrepreneurship and innovation in the competitiveness of biotechnology companies through a focus on: intellectual property strategies, product development, valuing biotechnology ventures, funding innovation and R&D, alliances and networking, changing industry structures evidenced through the shifting value chain and the impact of globalization on the changing industry and organizational life cycles. International case studies with a focus on human biosciences support the important theoretical developments at the heart of this book. Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Biotechnology offers original and valuable insights to researchers, academics and students as well as to practitioners involved with innovation and entrepreneurship in the field of biotechnology.

With the erratic changes in climate, crop plants are facing many forms of biotic stresses. When plants are under stress, among several gene families, regulatory genes play a vital role in signal transduction in modulating the expression of genes underpinning several defense pathways and targeting regulatory proteins (viz, transcription factors (TFs)) can be the alternative. Transcription factors directly regulate the downstream R genes and are excellent candidates for disease resistance breeding. Till date, numerous transcription factors have been identified and characterized structurally and functionally. Of them, TF families such as WRKY, NAC, Whirly, Apetala2 (AP2), ethylene responsive elements (ERF) etc. are found to be associated with transcriptional reprogramming of plant defense response. These TFs are responsive to the pathogen's PAMPs/DAMPs - host's PRR protein interactions and specifically binds to the cis-elements of defense genes and regulate their expression. With this background, realizing the importance of TFs in resistance breeding, this book discusses the recent research and developments in this field for various crops.

Biomaterials for Neural Tissue Engineering covers a range of materials and technologies used for regenerating or repairing neural tissue. With a strong focus on biomaterials and scaffolds, the book examines the testing and evaluation pathway for in-vitro and in-vivo testing trials. This book introduces the reader to the fundamentals of the nervous system from a tissue engineering perspective and goes on to describe contemporary technologies used in the development of neural repair materials, as well as currently available biomaterials suitable for neural tissue repair and regeneration. This detailed reference is ideal for those who are new to using biomaterials in tissue engineering, particularly those interested in the nervous system, including academics and early career researchers in the fields of materials science, regenerative medicine, biomedical engineering and clinical sciences.

Advances in Applied Microbiology, Volume 122 continues the comprehensive reach of this widely read and authoritative review source in microbiology. Users will find invaluable references and information on a variety of areas relating to the topic of microbiology. This release includes updates on BioMateriOME: to understand microbe-material interactions within sustainable, living architectures.

This second edition volume expands on the previous edition with new and updated chapters on the latest developments in the study of yeast within the biotechnology field. The chapters in this book cover topics such as transformation protocols for genetic engineering of Saccaromyces cerevisiae and Komagataella spp.; an overview of selection markers, promoters, and strains used for metabolic engineering of S. cerevisiae, P. pastoris, and Z. bailii; the use of yeast in CRISPR/Cas9 technology; tools to study metabolic pathway in Yarrowia lypolitica; and a discussion on the "universal expression system" that is applied in a broad spectrum of fungal species. 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 authoritative, Yeast Metabolic Engineering: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition is a valuable resource for researchers and scientists interested in learning more about this important and developing field.

The series Topics in Current Chemistry Collections presents critical reviews from the journal Topics in Current Chemistry organized in topical volumes. The scope of coverage is all areas of chemical science including the interfaces with related disciplines such as biology, medicine and materials science. The goal of each thematic volume is to give the non-specialist reader, whether in academia or industry, a comprehensive insight into an area where new research is emerging which is of interest to a larger scientific audience. Each review within the volume critically surveys one aspect of that topic and places it within the context of the volume as a whole. The most significant developments of the last 5 to 10 years are presented using selected examples to illustrate the principles discussed. The coverage is not intended to be an exhaustive summary of the field or include large quantities of data, but should rather be conceptual, concentrating on the methodological thinking that will allow the non-specialist reader to understand the information presented. Contributions also offer an outlook on potential future developments in the field. The chapter "DNA-Programmed Chemical Synthesis of Polymers and Inorganic Nanomaterials" is available open access under a CC BY 4.0 License via link.springer.com.

Enzymatic catalysis has gained considerable attention in recent years as an efficient tool in the preparation of natural products, pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and food ingredients. The high selectivity and mild reaction con- tions associated with enzymatic transformations have made this approach an attractive alternative in the synthesis of complex bioactive compounds, which are often difficult to obtain by standard chemical routes. However, the maj- ity of organic compounds are not very soluble in water, which was traditi- ally perceived as the only suitable reaction medium for the application of biocatalysts. The realization that most enzymes can function perfectly well under nearly anhydrous conditions and, in addition, display a number of useful properties, e. g. , highly enhanced stability and different selectivity, has d- matically widened the scope of their application to the organic synthesis. Another great attraction of using organic solvents rather than water as a reaction solvent is the ability to perform synthetic transformations with re- tively inexpensive hydrolytic enzymes. It is worth reminding the reader that in vivo, the synthetic and hydrolytic pathways are catalyzed by different enzymes. However, elimination of water from the reaction mixture enables the "reversal" of hydrolytic enzymes and thus avoids the use of the expensive cofactors or activated substrates that are required for their synthetic count- parts.

Biomaterials for Clinical Applications is organized according to the World Health Organization 's report of the top 11 causes of death worldwide, and lays out opportunities for both biomaterials scientists and physicians to tackle each of these leading contributors to mortality. The introductory chapter discusses the global burden of disease. Each of the subsequent eleven chapters focuses on a specific disease process, beginning with the leading cause of death worldwide, cardiovascular disease. The chapters start with describing diseases where clinical needs are most pressing, and then envisions how biomaterials can be designed to address these needs, instead of the more technologically centered approached favored by most books in the field. This book, then, should appeal to chemical engineers and bioengineers who are designing new biomaterials for drug delivery and vaccine delivery, as well as tissue engineering.

Valuation is a hot topic among life sciences professionals. There is no clear understanding on how to use the different valuation approaches and how to determine input parameters. Some do not value at all, arguing that it is not possible to get realistic and objective numbers out of it. Some claim it to be an art. In the following chapters we will provide the user with a concise val- tion manual, providing transparency and practical insight for all dealing with valuation in life sciences: project and portfolio managers, licensing executives, business developers, technology transfer managers, entrep- neurs, investors, and analysts. The purpose of the book is to explain how to apply discounted cash flow and real options valuation to life sciences p- jects, i.e. to license contracts, patents, and firms. We explain the fun- mentals and the pitfalls with case studies so that the reader is capable of performing the valuations on his own and repeat the theory in the exercises and case studies. The book is structured in five parts: In the first part, the introduction, we discuss the role of the players in the life sciences industry and their p- ticular interests. We describe why valuation is important to them, where they need it, and the current problems to it. The second part deals with the input parameters required for valuation in life sciences, i.e. success rates, costs, peak sales, and timelines.

The consumption of petroleum has surged during the 20th century, at least partially because of the rise of the automobile industry. Today, fossil fuels such as coal, oil, and natural gas provide more than three quarters of the world's energy. Unfortunately, the growing demand for fossil fuel resources comes at a time of diminishing reserves of these nonrenewable resources. The worldwide reserves of oil are sufficient to supply energy and chemicals for only about another 40 years, causing widening concerns about rising oil prices. The use of biomass to produce energy is only one form of renewable energy that can be utilized to reduce the impact of energy production and use on the global environment. Biomass can be converted into three main products such as energy, biofuels and fine chemicals using a number of different processes. Today, it is a great challenge for researchers to find new environmentally benign methodology for biomass conversion, which are industrially profitable as well. This book focuses on the conversion of biomass to biofuels, bioenergy and fine chemicals with the interface of biotechnology, microbiology, chemistry and materials science. An international scientific authorship summarizes the state-of-the-art of the current research and gives an outlook on future developments.

This book review series presents current trends in modern biotechnology. The aim is to cover all aspects of this interdisciplinary technology where knowledge, methods and expertise are required from chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, chemical engineering and computer science. Volumes are organized topically and provide a comprehensive discussion of developments in the respective field over the past 3-5 years. The series also discusses new discoveries and applications. Special volumes are dedicated to selected topics which focus on new biotechnological products and new processes for their synthesis and purification. In general, special volumes are edited by well-known guest editors. The series editor and publisher will however always be pleased to receive suggestions and supplementary information. Manuscripts are accepted in English.

This detailed volume provides state-of-the-art methodologies and reviews of important topics in the field of homology modeling. From homology modeling in the twilight zone and improving accuracy through sequence space analysis to approaches to construct multi-protein complex models, the book explores a wide variety of uses and applications of this valuable technique. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, the chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary programs, webservers, and databases, step-by-step and readily reproducible protocols, as well as tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls.  Authoritative and practical, Homology Modeling: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal guide to recent homology modeling procedures, assumptions made, and model quality assessment that will illuminate the black box of homology modeling for novice readers and broaden the knowledge of this methodology for professionals.

Principles and Practice of Bioanalysis provides a guide to the methods available and the techniques currently used in this field. It provides up to the minute information and guidance on the methods and strategy used in developing and running ultra-trace analyses for drugs, metabolites and other substances. The authors writes in an informal and didactic style, offering a logical path through the problems of small molecule (bio)analysis and enables readers to choose appropriate methods of analysis for their needs. Principles and Practice of Bioanalysis gives an overview of analytical methods for analytical scientists within the pharmaceutical industry, research and development, the agrochemical industry, and scientists in the health service, biology and biochemistry. It also gives postgraduate students a useful reference for their research methods.

Examples from various organs and diseases illustrate the potential benefit obtained when both therapeutic approaches are combined with delivery strategies. Representing the combined effort of several leading international research and clinical experts, this book, Emerging Trends in Cell and Gene Therapy, provides a complete account on and brings into sharp focus current trends and state-of-the-art in important areas at the interface of cell- and gene-based therapies. This book addresses the current fragmented understanding regarding these two research areas and fills the vast unmet educational need and interest of both students and researchers in academia and industry. Main features of the book: * Biological aspects of stem cell sources, differentiation and engineering. * Application of microfluidics to study stem cell dynamics * Potential clinical application of stem cells and gene therapy to specific human disease. * Utilization of biomaterials and stem cells in regenerative medicine with particular emphasis on spinal cord repair, ligament and bone tissue engineering. * Biomimetic multiscale topography for cell alignment.

This book describes emerging and established industrial processes of biomining technologies used for the recovery of metals of economic interest from, e.g. mineral ores, mining and electronic wastes using microbiological technologies. Multiple chapters focus on engineering design and operation of biomining systems. Several industrial case studies from China, Chile, Peru, Russia/Kazakhstan and Finland are included, which emphasises the practical approach of the book. The reader not only learns more about the biology, diversity and ecology of microorganisms involved in biomining processes, but also about microbial biomolecular and cultivation tools used in the biomining industry. Special emphasis is put on emerging biotechnologies enabling the use of biomining for recycling metals from e-wastes, waste streams and process waters. Finally, the future impacts and direction of biomining towards sustainability in a metal-demanding world are also highlighted. The book is aimed at an interdisciplinary audience involving operators and researchers working across disciplines including geology, chemical engineering, microbiology and molecular biology. This is reflected by the content of this book, as well as by its authors, who are all leading practitioners and authorities in their fields.

Additive Manufacturing of Biopolymers: Materials, Printing Techniques, and Applications describes various biopolymers that are currently used in additive manufacturing technologies and identifies the challenges/limitations in the materials and printing processes. The book provides basic knowledge and advanced details about 3D printing techniques and the applicable biopolymers as well as the latest updates on materials and techniques for 3D printing of biopolymers. Each chapter dedicates a section to future trends and perspectives in additive manufacturing of biopolymers from the use of biopolymers and new techniques point-of-view.

Applications of Unsaturated Polyester Resins: Synthesis, Modifications, and Preparation Methods takes a practical approach to unsaturated polyester-based materials and their preparation for implementation in a range of innovative areas. Sections introduce the background of polyester and the fundamentals of unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs), including chemistry, additives, curing, and processing methods. Hydrolytic stability and structure-property relationships are also discussed in detail, along with coverage of modification strategies for UPR and the development of bio-composites incorporating natural fiber with unsaturated polyester. Subsequent chapters focus on the preparation of UPR for specific target applications, including in construction, marine and aerospace, adhesives and coatings, insulation systems, electrics, pipeline corrosion, military, biomedicine, and tissue engineering. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of UPR compared to other resins, in terms of properties and performance, as well as life cycle assessment, are addressed and analyzed.

Heterosis and Hybrid Seed Production in Agronomic Crops discusses how heterosis or "hybrid vigor" has played a major role in improving crop productivity and quality in order to feed the ever-increasing human population, particularly in developing countries. Plant breeders, agronomists, seed producers, and farmers will discover why the development of hybrids in the world's major food crops and why the methods of hybrid seed production are critical for achieving this goal. This landmark book deals with heterosis and hybrid seed production of major agronomic crops such as wheat, rice, maize, sorghum, cotton, sunflower, and rapeseed. Through Heterosis and Hybrid Seed Production in Agronomic Crops, you will discover valuable information on hybrid seed production methods that is not available in any other single volume. This unique book contains relevant and essential information about important procedures to help increase crop yield, including: methods for derivingsecond cycle inbred lines for hybrid maize possibilities for hybrid seed production in wheat techniques of hybrid sorghum seed production production of hybrid seeds using male sterile lines of cotton agronomic management in seed production plots of sunflower seed production technology of hybrid rapeseed advances in hybrid seed production technology of rice in ChinaHeterosis and Hybrid Seed Production in Agronomic Crops gives you a global perspective on essential food crops in all parts of the world. This informative guide will help you use hybrid seed production methods with important agricultural crops and increase the quality of these vital and essential food sources.

The 2012 International Conference on Applied Biotechnology (ICAB 2012) was held in Tianjin, China on October 18-19, 2012. It provides not only a platform for domestic and foreign researchers to exchange their ideas and experiences with the application-oriented research of biotechnology, but also an opportunity to promote the development and prosperity of the biotechnology industry. The proceedings of ICAB 2012 mainly focus on the world's latest scientific research and techniques in applied biotechnology, including Industrial Microbial Technology, Food Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Environmental Biotechnology, Marine Biotechnology, Agricultural Biotechnology, Biological Materials and Bio-energy Technology, Advances in Biotechnology, and Future Trends in Biotechnology. These proceedings are intended for scientists and researchers engaging in applied biotechnology. Professor Pingkai Ouyang is the President of the Nanjing University of Technology, China. Professor Tongcun Zhang is the Director of the Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of the Ministry of Education at the College of Bioengineering, Tianjin University of Science and Technology, China. Dr. Samuel Kaplan is a Professor at the Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics at the University of Texas at Houston Medical School, Houston, Texas, USA. Dr. Bill Skarnes is a Professor at Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, United Kingdom.

The replacement of fossil-derived compounds by bio-based fuels and chemicals is crucial for the implementation of a sustainable bioeconomy. In this context, microorganisms are key players for biofuels' production from renewable sources. Biotechnological biofuel production processes require conversion microorganisms capable of both efficiently assimilating renewable low-cost carbon sources and diverting their metabolisms towards the specific biofuel. Exploring the wide diversity of microorganisms available on Earth will surely aid to make the production of green fuels a reality. This book gives a wide overview of different microbial-based processes for green fuels production. The book also includes techno-economic analysis and highlights strategic, commercial and environmental interests in promoting green fuels. All these facts make this book very valuable not only for the scientific community but also for biofuel companies and policy makers.