Gene function annotation has been a central question in molecular biology. The importance of computational function prediction is increasing because more and more large scale biological data, including genome sequences, protein structures, protein-protein interaction data, microarray expression data, and mass spectrometry data, are awaiting biological interpretation. Traditionally when a genome is sequenced, function annotation of genes is done by homology search methods, such as BLAST or FASTA. However, since these methods are developed before the genomics era, conventional use of them is not necessarily most suitable for analyzing a large scale data. Therefore we observe emerging development of computational gene function prediction methods, which are targeted to analyze large scale data, and also those which use such omics data as additional source of function prediction. In this book, we overview this emerging exciting field. The authors have been selected from 1) those who develop novel purely computational methods 2) those who develop function prediction methods which use omics data 3) those who maintain and update data base of function annotation of particular model organisms (E. coli), which are frequently referred

Biotechnology is one of the most important new issues to emerge in the knowledge economy. The Politics of Biotechnology in North America and Europe provides analysts with a perspective on policy-making in scientifically advanced countries that integrate the insights of several approaches and that display a particular sensitivity to the complexity of policy-making conjectures. This perspective allows going beyond the simplistic understandings of biotechnology policy currently prevailing. This volume provides a rigorous analysis and detailed information on biotechnology policy in nine countries. The essays included here present the results of in-depth empirical research in the area of biomedicine and agro-food biotechnology. The book is, therefore, not only of interest to policy-makers and policy analysts, but also to anyone with an interest in biotechnology.

This is the fourth updated and revised edition of a well-received book that emphasises on fungal diversity, plant productivity and sustainability. It contains new chapters written by leading experts in the field. This book is an up-to-date overview of current progress in mycorrhiza and association with plant productivity and environmental sustainability. The result is a must hands-on guide, ideally suited for agri-biotechnology, soil biology, fungal biology including mycorrhiza and stress management, academia and researchers. The topic of this book is particularly relevant to researchers involved in mycorrhiza, especially to food security and environmental protection. Mycorrhizas are symbioses between fungi and the roots of higher plants. As more than 90% of all known species of plants have the potential to form mycorrhizal associations, the productivity and species composition and the diversity of natural ecosystems are frequently dependent upon the pre sence and activity of mycorrhizas. The biotechnological application of mycorrhizas is expected to promote the production of food while maintaining ecologically and economically sustainable production systems.

This book presents an overview of fundamental aspects of surface-based biosensors and techniques for enhancing their detection sensitivity and speed. It focuses on rapid detection using miniaturized sensors and describes the physical principles of nanoscale transducers, surface modifications, microfluidics and reaction engineering, diffusion and kinetics. A key challenge in the field of bioanalytical sensors is the rapid delivery of target biomolecules to the sensing surface. While various nanostructures have shown great promise in sensitive detection, diffusion-limited binding of analyte molecules remains a fundamental problem. Recently, many researchers have put forward novel schemes to overcome this challenge, such as nanopore channels, electrokinetics, and dielectrophoresis, to name but a few. This book provides the readers an up-to-date account on these technological advances.

Weeds, insects, rodents, and pathogens are major problems in agricultural and urban environments; there is a clear need to augment chemical methods of control with biological methods. Until now these efforts have had limited success because of insufficient virulence of the host-specific organisms used. Naturally occurring biological agents are in evolutionary balance with their hosts, and attaining the level of control typically desired would lead to extinction of both the control agent and its host.In this book, the main researchers involved in enhancing fungal, bacterial, virus and insect biological control agents on different targets review progress in overcoming the barrier of insufficient virulence. This multi-disciplinary group, with backgrounds in many facets of biotechnology and crop protection, reviews their work and that of others, and describes the approaches, the successes and the remaining barriers in an integrated manner.

DNA and RNA fractions have been isolated from the whole blood, serum, plasma, the surface of blood cells, urine, saliva and spinal fluid from both healthy individuals and clinical patients. Recent developments are presented concerning the isolation, quantification and analysis of these molecules and their use in the identification of specific nucleic acid fragments related to a variety of clinical disorders thereby permitting their early diagnosis and prognosis.

Medicine and engineering work together towards solutions for biomedical problems. The interactions of blood elements with artificial materials (bags, tubes, artificial organs, etc.) require many disciplines for its understanding. Thus the effort presented in this book is the culmination of a genuine discussion on the problems arising in blood banks, in hospitals, in biomaterials development, in experimental haemocompatibility testing when platelets interact with biomaterials. Haematologists, chemists, biologists and engineers have tried to put their own point of view and to understand the point of view of the other disciplines. The main themes that are presented in the discussion are: platelet collection, storage and transfusion; haemostasis and anticoagulation; platelet and biomaterials, extracorporeal circulation and implanted materials; haemorheological parameters; modulation of platelet function; biological tests for evaluating platelet biomaterial interactions.

Plant-based medicines play an important role in all cultures, and have been indispensable in maintaining health and combating diseases. The identification of active principles and their molecular targets from traditional medicine provides an enormous opportunity for drug development. Using modern biotechnology, plants with specific chemical compositions can be mass propagated and genetically improved for the extraction of bulk active pharmaceuticals. Although there has been significant progress in the use of biotechnology, using tissue cultures and genetic transformation to investigate and alter pathways for the biosynthesis of target metabolites, there are many challenges involved in bringing plants from the laboratory to successful commercial cultivation. This book presents the latest advances in the development of medicinal drugs, including topics such as plant tissue cultures, secondary metabolite production, metabolomics, metabolic engineering, bioinformatics and future biotechnological directions.

NanoBioTechnology: BioInspired Devices and Materials of the Future is a groundbreaking text that will assist scientists and students in learning the fundamentals and cutting-edge nature of this new and emerging science. Focusing on materials and building blocks for nanotechnology, leading scientists from around the world share their knowledge and expertise in this authoritative volume.

The volume is broken into five sections. The first section presents an overview of nanotechnology and describes the many aspects of the field. Section 2 details biological materials serving as nanotemplates for bottom-up fabrication. Section 3 covers the use of biological macromolecules for electron transfer and computation. Section 4 presents a brief overview of the extensive and rapidly growing field of nanomedicine. Finally, Section 5 details de-novo designed structures and the various approaches different scientific groups take with molecular level training and language.

Authoritative and comprehensive, NanoBioTechnology: BioInspired Devices and Materials of the Future provides an extraordinary and thorough overview of the emerging field of nanobiotechnology for engineers and physicists, chemists and biologists, and others from many diverse fields.

Grapevine is a crop of major economical interest, and wine represents a multicultural heritage which has been growing since several milleniums. Yet, modern viticulture must face several challenges. Global climate has increased berry sugar content (and alcohol in the wine) whereas phenolic and aromatic ripeness are not always achieved. Water supply is becoming shorter. New varieties better adapted to new climatic conditions might have to be planted, which may affect wine typicity. Phytochemical treatments are more controlled, and the consumer pays increasing attention to environmentally safe practices. New methods reducing pesticide use, but maintaining yield and typicity, must be designed. The present book illustrates the recent progress made in ecophysiology, molecular and cell biology, and pathology of grapevine, as well as in precision viticulture and berry composition. Combination of these new tools with field observations will undoubtly make it easier to face the challenges described above. These multidisciplinary contributions will be of interest to anyone involved in grapevine and wine activities.

This book describes a robust, low-cost electrochemical sensing system that is able to detect hormones and phthalates - the most ubiquitous endocrine disruptor compounds - in beverages and is sufficiently flexible to be readily coupled with any existing chemical or biochemical sensing system. A novel type of silicon substrate-based smart interdigital transducer, developed using MEMS semiconductor fabrication technology, is employed in conjunction with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to allow real-time detection and analysis. Furthermore, the presented interdigital capacitive sensor design offers a sufficient penetration depth of the fringing electric field to permit bulk sample testing. The authors address all aspects of the development of the system and fully explain its benefits. The book will be of wide interest to engineers, scientists, and researchers working in the fields of physical electrochemistry and biochemistry at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and research levels. It will also be highly relevant for practitioners and researchers involved in the development of electromagnetic sensors.

This book highlights the implications of nanotechnology in plant sciences, particularly its potential to improve food and agricultural systems, through innovative, eco-friendly approaches, and as a result to increase plant productivity. Topics include various aspects of nanomaterials: biophysical and biochemical properties; methods of treatment, detection and quantification; methods of quantifying the uptake of nanomaterials and their translocation and accumulation in plants. In addition, the effects on plant growth and development, the role of nanoparticles in changes in gene and protein expression, and delivery of genetic materials for genetic improvement are discussed. It also explores how nanotechnology can improve plant protection and plant nutrition, and addresses concerns about using nanoparticles and their compliances. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the application potential of nanoparticles in plant science and serves as a valuable resource for students, teachers, researchers and professionals working on nanotechnology.

Genomics research has great potential to revolutionize the discipline of plant breeding. This two-volume set provides a critical assessment of genomics tools and approaches for crop breeding. Volume 1, entitled "Genomics Approaches and Platforms," illustrates state-of-the-art genomics approaches and platforms presently available for crop improvement. Volume 2, entitled "Genomics Applications in Crops," compiles crop-specific studies that summarize both the achievements and limitations of genomics research for crop improvement. We hope that these two volumes, while providing new ideas and opportunities to those working in crop breeding, will help graduate students and teachers to develop a better understanding of the applications of crop genomics to plant research and breeding.

This book presents the Proceedings of ICON-2019, an international meeting exclusively dedicated to nanostructured materials in medicinal applications. The conference emphasized the recent advances in multidisciplinary research on processing, morphology, structure and properties of nanostructured materials and their applications in various medicinal fields. The papers encompass basic studies and applications and address topics of novel issues, difficulties, and breakthroughs in the field of nanomedicine in cancer, tuberculosis, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine etc.

This book reviews the latest advances in the bioelectrochemical degradation of recalcitrant environmental contaminants. The first part introduces readers to the basic principles and methodologies of bioelectrochemical systems, electron-respiring microorganisms, the electron transfer mechanism and functional electrode materials. In turn, the second part addresses the bioelectrochemical remediation/treatment of various environmental pollutants (including highly toxic refractory organics, heavy metals, and nitrates) in wastewater, sediment and wetlands. Reactor configuration optimization, hybrid technology amplification and enhanced removal principles and techniques are also discussed. The book offers a valuable resource for all researchers and professionals working in environmental science and engineering, bioelectrochemistry, environmental microbiology and biotechnology.

This book focuses on an "outside the box" notion by utilizing the powerful applications of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies in the interface of chemistry and biology. In personalized medicine, developing small molecules targeting a specific genomic sequence is an attractive goal. N-methylpyrrole (P)-N-methylimidazole (I) polyamides (PIPs) are a class of small molecule that can bind to the DNA minor groove. First, a cost-effective NGS (ion torrent platform)-based Bind-n-Seq was developed to identify the binding specificity of PIP conjugates in a randomized DNA library. Their biological influences rely primarily on selective DNA binding affinity, so it is important to analyze their genome-wide binding preferences. However, it is demanding to enrich specifically the small-molecule-bound DNA without chemical cross-linking or covalent binding in chromatinized genomes. Herein is described a method that was developed using high-throughput sequencing to map the differential binding sites and relative enriched regions of non-cross-linked SAHA-PIPs throughout the complex human genome. SAHA-PIPs binding motifs were identified and the genome-level mapping of SAHA-PIPs-enriched regions provided evidence for the differential activation of the gene network. A method using high-throughput sequencing to map the binding sites and relative enriched regions of alkylating PIP throughout the human genome was also developed. The genome-level mapping of alkylating the PIP-enriched region and the binding sites on the human genome identifies significant genomic targets of breast cancer. It is anticipated that this pioneering low-cost, high through-put investigation at the sequence-specific level will be helpful in understanding the binding specificity of various DNA-binding small molecules, which in turn will be beneficial for the development of small-molecule-based drugs targeting a genome-level sequence.

This Volume presents protocols for investigating the genetic, metabolic and ecological potential and functional analysis of microbial communities. Methods are described for the creation and bioinformatic assessment of metagenomic and metatranscriptomic libraries, and for metaproteomic analyses, which provide important insights into the metabolic potential and interactions of community members. These in turn lead to specific hypotheses concerning the functional contributions of individual populations in the community, which may be investigated by the stable isotope probing approaches described in this Volume, making it possible to identify those community members primarily responsible for particular functions. Methods for the direct extraction of proteins from environmental samples for sequencing and activity tests are presented, providing a broad overview of prevailing metabolic activities and of the types of microbe involved in them. Protocols for the analysis of nutrient flow through microbial communities and for the modelling of dynamic physiological interactions in communities are also provided. Lastly, the book presents a protocol for the quantitative assessment of permissiveness for the transfer of conjugative plasmids, important agents of physiological change and evolution in microbial communities. Hydrocarbon and Lipid Microbiology ProtocolsThere are tens of thousands of structurally different hydrocarbons, hydrocarbon derivatives and lipids, and a wide array of these molecules are required for cells to function. The global hydrocarbon cycle, which is largely driven by microorganisms, has a major impact on our environment and climate. Microbes are responsible for cleaning up the environmental pollution caused by the exploitation of hydrocarbon reservoirs and will also be pivotal in reducing our reliance on fossil fuels by providing biofuels, plastics and industrial chemicals. Gaining an understanding of the relevant functions of the wide range of microbes that produce, consume and modify hydrocarbons and related compounds will be key to responding to these challenges. This comprehensive collection of current and emerging protocols will facilitate acquisition of this understanding and exploitation of useful activities of such microbes.

Basic Laboratory Methods for Biotechnology, Third Edition is a versatile textbook that provides students with a solid foundation to pursue employment in the biotech industry and can later serve as a practical reference to ensure success at each stage in their career. The authors focus on basic principles and methods while skillfully including recent innovations and industry trends throughout. Fundamental laboratory skills are emphasized, and boxed content provides step by step laboratory method instructions for ease of reference at any point in the students' progress. Worked through examples and practice problems and solutions assist student comprehension. Coverage includes safety practices and instructions on using common laboratory instruments. Key Features: Provides a valuable reference for laboratory professionals at all stages of their careers. Focuses on basic principles and methods to provide students with the knowledge needed to begin a career in the Biotechnology industry. Describes fundamental laboratory skills. Includes laboratory scenario-based questions that require students to write or discuss their answers to ensure they have mastered the chapter content. Updates reflect recent innovations and regulatory requirements to ensure students stay up to date. Tables, a detailed glossary, practice problems and solutions, case studies and anecdotes provide students with the tools needed to master the content.

Tree improvement is necessary to meet the growing demand for renewable wood resource and the time is ripe for a critical evaluation of the chances and challenges of tree transgenesis. This book provides an up-to-date review of the present state of genetic engineering of trees. Biosafety and risk assessment are treated in detail, and future experimental tasks are discussed. The book provides a sound basis for decision-making processes in politics.

Nanobiotechnology holds the promise of providing revolutionary insight into aspects biology ranging from fundamental questions such as elucidating molecular mechanisms of brain disorders to extraordinary applications such as the detection of a single cancer cell in a population of a million cells. The second edition of Nanobiotechnology Protocols expands upon the previous editions with current, detailed protocols for nanobiotechnology; imaging and detection. With new chapters that explore nano-bio constructs and toxicology of nanomaterials. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology (TM) 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. Authoritative and practical, Nanobiotechnology Protocol, Second Edition highlights important current areas of development and directions of the field for the future.

Top international experts present their findings here on new commercial pillared clays and the latest work in industrial microporous solids. Culled from recent investigations, some presented at the symposium on Advances in Zeolites and Pillared Clays Synthesis sponsored by the American Chemical Society, these papers include previously unpublished reports on commercial materials from major corporations and research institutes. They offer "how to" information on zeolite synthesis, as well as a survey of advances in novel zeolites.

Hardly any other term in the ?eld of biotechnologyhas been the subject of so muchdiscussionamongexpertsaswhitebiotechnologyatpresent.Thistermis an alias for "industrial biotechnology," an already established "heavyweight" that focuses on the production of the most diverse products (bulk and ?ne chemicals, enzymes, food and animal feed additives, pharmaceutically active substances and agrochemicals, auxiliary agents for processindustries, etc.). Insomesegments, whitebiotechnologyhasalreadycapturedleadingmarket positions: - In recent years the annual biotechnological production of amino acids exceeded one million tons. - Invitaminproductiontherehavebeen several recent casesofachangeover from a chemical to a biotechnological synthesis process, a trend that is expected to increase. - During the last 10 years the market volume for enzymes has increased by 50%. - The successful launch of polylactide marked white biotechnology's bre- throughinto the ?eld ofpolymers and synthetics. Today crude oil is the most important energy source and the most widely used chemical raw material. Both primary industry and polymer chemistry currently depend to a great extent on oil. However, it is only a matter of time beforetheworld'soilreservesaredepleted.Almostallstudiespresentedtodate agreethatpeakoil, i.e.thepointintimewhenoilextractionreachesitshighest level, will take place in the ?rst half of the present century. The increasingly dif?cultdevelopmentofnewsourcesofoilhavetriggeredinitiativesworldwide to reduce national dependence on oil imports.