Marine biology has always played an important role in biological research, being at the origin of many key advances. To a certain extent, the influence of marine biology on the biological sciences was overshadowed over a period of several years by the remarkable advances that were made using powerful model organisms from terrestrial environments. This situation is now changing again, however, due primarily to spectacular developments in genomic methodologies that have significantly accelerated research in a broad spectrum of marine biology disciplines ranging from biodiversity to developmental biology to biotechnology. The data generated by marine genomics projects have had an impact on questions as diverse as understanding planetary geochemical cycles, the impact of climate change on marine fauna and flora, the functioning of marine ecosystems, the discovery of new organisms and novel biomolecules, and investigation of the evolution of animal developmental complexity. This book represents the first attempt to document how genomic technologies are revolutionising these diverse domains of marine biology. Each chapter of this book looks at how these technologies are being employed in a specific domain of marine research and provides a summary of the major results obtained to date. The book as a whole provides an overview of marine genomics as a discipline and represents an ideal starting point for exploring this rapidly developing domain.

This volume contains cutting-edge techniques to study the function of enhancers and promoters in depth. Chapters are divided into six sections and describe enhancer-promoter transcripts, nucleosome occupancy, DNA accessibility, chromatin interactions, protein-DNA interactions, functional analyses, and DNA methylation assays. Written in the Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include comprehensive introductions, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step laboratory protocols, and useful suggestions for troubleshooting. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Enhancers and Promoters: Methods and Protocols is a useful guide for future experiments. Chapters 4 and 11 are available open access under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License via link.springer.com

This volume contains the texts of lectures and posters presented at the Sixth European Conference on the Spectroscopy of Biological Molecules (ECSBM), held at the "Universite des Sciences et Technologies de Lille," Villeneuve d'Ascq, France rd th from 3 to 8 September 1995 at the occasion of the tenth anniversary of the Conference. During a NATO Summer School "Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy of Biological Molecules," organized by C. Sandorfy and T. Theophanides in Maratea (Italy) in 1983, a group of spectroscopists decided to organize a regular European meeting to check the lastest research results obtained by the different groups working in this field and to promote new cooperation between spectroscopists, biophysicists, biochemists and physicians. Since then ECSBM has been held biennially at Reims, France (1985), Freiburg, Germany (1987), Rimini, Italy (1989), York, United Kingdom (1991) and Loutraki, Greece (1993). The great increase in both the number of participants in this International Conference and in their countries of origin (from many countries outside as well as within Europe) during the last ten years has proved the necessity of this kind of meeting and the prosperity of this field of research.

Giving a fresh, substantial and in-depth overview of the topic, this book brings together the latest results in the field of metabolomics. It comprehensively presents the current state of the metabolomics field by underscoring experimental methods, analysis techniques, standardization practices, and advances in specific model systems. As a result, it helps to significantly broaden our perspective on the principles and strategies underpinning this emerging field.

Bacteriophages (viruses that infect bacteria) are fascinating organisms that have played and continue to play a key role in bacterial genetics and molecular biology. Phage can confer key phenotypes on their host for example, converting a non-pathogenic strain into a pathogen and they play a key role in regulating bacterial populations in all sorts of environments. The phage-bacterium relationship varies enormously, from the simple predator-prey model to a complex, almost symbiotic relationship that promotes the survival and evolutionary success of both. While infection of bacteria used in the fermentation industry can be very problematic and result in financial losses, in other scenarios, phage infection of bacteria can be exploited for industrial and/or medical applications. Interest in phage and phage gene products as potential therapeutic agents is increasing rapidly and is likely to have a profound impact on the pharmaceutical industry and biotechnology in general over the comi

Covering a range of metaphors from a diverse field of sciences, from cell and molecular biology to evolution, ecology, and biomedicine, Understanding Metaphors in the Life Sciences explores the positive and negative implications of the widespread use of metaphors in the biological and life sciences. From genetic codes, programs, and blueprints, to cell factories, survival of the fittest, the tree of life, selfish genes, and ecological niches, to genome editing with CRISPR's molecular scissors, metaphors are ubiquitous and vital components of the modern life sciences. But how exactly do metaphors help scientists to understand the objects they study? How can they mislead both scientists and laypeople alike? And what should we all understand about the implications of science's reliance on metaphorical speech and thought for objective knowledge and adequate public policy informed by science? This book will literally help you to better understand the metaphorical dimensions of science.

Now in its second edition, this book provides a state of the art overview on basic concepts of epigenetic epidemiology and a comprehensive review of the rapidly evolving field of human epigenetics. Epigenetics plays an important role in shaping who we are and contributes to our prospects of health and disease. Unlike our genetic inheritance, our epigenome is malleable throughout the lifecourse and is shaped by our environmental experiences. Population-based epidemiologic studies increasingly incorporate epigenetic components. These so called epigenome-wide association studies (EWAS) contribute substantially to our understanding of the relevance of epigenetic marks, such as DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs for disease causation. Written by leading experts in the field, the book opens with a comprehensive introduction of the principles of epigenetic epidemiology and discusses challenges in study design, analysis, and interpretation. It summarizes the latest advances in epigenetic laboratory techniques, the influence of age and environmental factors on shaping the epigenome, the epigenetic clock, and the role of epigenetics in the developmental origins hypothesis. The final part focuses on epigenetic epidemiology of various health conditions such as imprinting disorders, cancer, infectious diseases, inflammation and rheumatoid arthritis, asthma, metabolic disorder and vascular disease, as well as neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. Given its scope, Epigenetic Epidemiology is an indispensable resource for researchers working in the field of human epigenetics.

This contributed volume aims at bringing together all the genetic engineering tools for managing various types of crop pests. The main focus of this book is to explore the application of these tools in pest management. Major pest groups covered in this book are insects, mites and nematodes.The first section covers all major genetic tools and molecular approaches. The second section deals with genetic tools for of beneficial containing three chapters involving honey bees, silkworms and natural enemies. Next section deals with genetic interactions against pests in diverse geographical regions with special focus on Africa, Vietnam and Sri Lanka. Sections four and five addresses diverse aspects as management of pests, genetic behavior, gene expression, plasticity, pathways and interactions and options for mitigation of pests.It serves as a useful resource for professionals in the fields of entomology, agronomy, horticulture, ecology, and environmental sciences, as well as to agricultural producers and plant biotechnologists.

Pocket Guide to Gene Level Diagnostics in Clinical Practice is an abbreviated, pocket-size, quick-reference guide that provides a point-by-point synopsis of the vast wealth of information contained in CRC Handbook of Gene Level Diagnostics in Clinical Practice. All sections and subsections in the Pocket Guide are cross-referenced to corresponding pages in the Handbook. The book works well on its own as a quick reference, but also can be used in conjunction with the larger Handbook for detailed coverage and references to specific information. Pocket Guide to Gene Level Diagnostics in Clinical Practice also includes extensive supplements featuring material not included in the Handbook. These are intended to provide an up-dated, practical source of information useful to anyone involved in molecular diagnostic research and/or service. Supplements are cross-referenced to the main text of the Pocket Guide, that complement and enhance the material covered. Pocket Guide to Gene Level Diagnostics in Clinical Practice will be a handy reference for professionals and students in pathology, biotechnology, biology, and medicine.

Many genes have been cloned from chicken cells, and during the next decade numerous laboratories will be concentrating their resources in developing ways of using these tools. Manipulation of the Avian Genome contains the most recent information from leading research laboratories in the areas of developmental and molecular genetics of the chicken. This information was presented at the Keystone Symposium held at Lake Tahoe in March, 1991. The book discusses potential applications of emerging technology in basic science and poultry production. Various techniques for altering genomic DNA, such as microinjection, retroviral vectors, and lipofection are covered. Genome evaluation using DNA fingerprinting and conventional breeding techniques are presented.

Genetic investigations and manipulations of bacteria and bacteriophage have made vital contributions to our basic understanding of living cells and to the development of molecular biology and biotechnology. This volume is a survey of the genetics of bacteria and their viruses, and it provides students with a comprehensive introduction to this rapidly changing subject. The book is written for upper level undergraduates and beginning graduate students, particularly those who have had an introductory genetics course.

The fifth edition has been extensively revised to reflect recent advances in the field. The book now has a reader-friendly look, with end-of-chapter questions, "Thinking Ahead" and "Applications" boxes to challenge students comprehension and insights. A complete glossary of commonly used terms has been revised and expanded.

Provides historical context for the many contributions made by using the Xenopus model System. Chapters written by an international team of leading researchers using Xenopus as a model organism. Chapters deal with cell biology, developmental biology, genomics, and evolutionary biology and include the results of the research. Well illustrated with color diagrams and photos.

This book is the first comprehensive compilation of deliberations on domestication, genetic and genomic resources, breeding, genetic diversity, molecular maps & mapping of important biotic stress as well as nutritional quality traits, genome sequencing, comparative genomics, functional genomics and genetic transformation. The economic, nutritional and health benefits especially antioxidants mediated antiaging effects of finger millet are also discussed. It also presents the input use efficiency, wide adaptation, post-harvest processing and value addition of the crop. Altogether, the book contains about 300 pages over 16 chapters authored by globally reputed experts on the relevant field in this crop. This book is useful to the students, teachers and scientists in the academia and relevant private companies interested in genetics, pathology, molecular genetics and breeding, genetic engineering, structural and functional genomics and nutritional quality aspects of the crop. This book is also useful to seed and pharmaceutical industries.

'Developmental biology' is widely understood as processes, which mainly concern embryonic animal development and differentiation of cells and tissue. It is also often defined as the timeline for the evolutionary developmental biology of eukaryotic multicellular higher organisms, i.e., plants and animals. The development of prokaryotes and lower eukaryotes in contrary has been neglected for a long time, which was the motivation for publishing this book. This book highlights one of Darwin's most important findings: Evolution is a creative, but not a conscious process. It also illustrates that this concept does not only apply to multicellular higher organisms, but affects every form of life. The reader shall find complex biochemical and genetic pathways of bacteria, yeasts or protozoa, comparable to those exhibited by plants or animals. The molecular mechanisms of dramatic genome rearrangements, recombination and horizontal gene transfer that are responsible for evolutionary adaptations are discussed. Additionally, the book covers bacteria of the genera Myxobacteriales and Caulobacterales, which are able to develop tissue-like cellular organization. The morphogenesis of entomopathogenic fungi and the endosymbiont theory are also addressed. The book is a useful introduction to the field for junior scientists, interested in bacteriology, protistology and fungal development. It is also an interesting read for advanced scientists, giving them a broader view of the field beyond their area of specialization.

Over the past 20 years, technological advances in molecular biology have proven invaluable to the understanding of the pathogenesis of human cancer. The application of molecular technology to the study of cancer has not only led to advances in tumor diagnosis, but has also provided markers for the assessment of prognosis and disease progression. The aim of Molecular Ana- sis of Cancer is to provide a comprehensive collection of the most up-to-date techniques for the detection of molecular changes in human cancer. Leading researchers in the field have contributed chapters detailing practical pro- dures for a wide range of state-of-the-art techniques. Molecular Analysis of Cancer includes chapters describing techniques for the identification of chromosomal abnormalities and comprising: fluor- cent in situ hybridization (FISH), spectral karyotyping (SKY), comparative genomic hybridization (CGH), and microsatellite analysis. FISH has a pro- nent role in the molecular analysis of cancer and can be used for the detection of numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities. The recently described SKY, in which all human metaphase chromosomes are visualized in specific colors, allows for the definition of all chromosomal rearrangements and marker chromosomes in a tumor cell. Protocols for the detection of chromosomal re- rangements by PCR and RT-PCR are described, as well as the technique of DNA fingerprinting, a powerful tool for studying somatic genetic alterations in tumorigenesis.

This second edition volume expands on the previous edition with discussions of recently developed techniques that use RNA scaffolds as molecular tools. These latest methods are used in the fields of molecular biology, cellular biology, nanotechnology, and structural biology. The chapters in this book cover topics such as RNA footprinting using small chemical reagents; using tRNA scaffolds to assist RNA crystallization; identification of RNA-binding proteins associated to RNA structural elements; and synthetic biology medicine and bacteria-based cancer therapeutics. 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, RNA Scaffolds: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition is a valuable resource that explores the fascinating uses of RNA in these different areas, and will inspire experts and novice researchers to further study this developing field.

This book provides an update on the latest development in the field of microRNAs in cancer research with an emphasis on translational research. Since the early 2000s, microRNAs have been recognized as important and ubiquitous regulators of gene expression. Soon it became evident that their deregulation can cause human diseases including cancer. This book focuses on the emerging opportunities for the application of microRNA research in clinical practice. In this context, computer models are presented that can help to identify novel biomarkers, e.g. in circulating microRNAs, and tools that can help to design microRNA-based therapeutic interventions. Other chapters evaluate the role of microRNAs in immunotherapy, immune responses and drug resistance. Covering key topics on microRNAs in cancer research this book is a valuable resource for both emerging and established microRNA researchers who want to explore the potential of microRNAs as therapeutic targets or co-adjuvants in cancer therapies.

This second edition provides a comprehensive review of various gene silencing methodologies and applications. Chapters detail a historical overview of gene silencing mechanisms in plants, vectors, and strategies available for plant gene silencing, practical applications of gene silencing, bioinformatics tools, and other resources. In addition to these review chapters, this book includes methodology for virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS), understanding plant stress responses using VIGS, miRNA identification, DNA interference, host-induced gene silencing, artificial miRNAs for gene silencing, and high throughput RNAi. 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 reagents, includes tips on troubleshooting and known pitfalls, and step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Plant Gene Silencing: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition aims to further the understanding of functional relevance of target genes using gene silencing methods and technologies in commercial plant varieties.

With the completion of sequencing projects and the advancement of a- lytical tools for protein identification, proteomics-the study of the expressed part of the genome-has become a major region of the burgeoning field of functional genomics. High-resolution 2-D gels can reveal virtually all p- teins present in a cell or tissue at any given time, including posttranslationally modified proteins. Changes in the expression and structure of most cellular proteins caused by differentiation or external stimuli can be displayed and eventually identified using 2-D protein gels. 2-D Proteome Analysis Protocols covers all aspects of the use of 2-D protein electrophoresis for the analysis of biological problems. The contri- tors include many of the leaders in the fields of biochemistry and analytical chemistry who were instrumental in the development of high-resolution 2-D gels, immobilized pH gradients, computer analysis, and mass spectromet- based protein identification methodologies. This book is intended as a benchtop manual and guide both for novices to 2-D gels and for those aficionados who wish to try the newer techniques. Any group using protein biochemistry-especially in the fields of molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, and cell biology-should find this book eminently useful. 2-D Proteome Analysis Protocols takes the researcher through the c- plete process of working with 2-D protein gels from making the protein - tract to finally identifying the proteins of interest. It includes protocols for generating 2-D protein extracts from most of the standard model organisms, including bacteria, yeast, nematode, Drosophila, plants, mouse, and human.

This completely revised edition explores novel discoveries in bacterial genomic research, with a focus on technical and computational improvements as well as methods used for bacterial pangenome analysis, which relies on microbiome studies and metagenomic data. Beginning with up-to-date sequencing methods, the book continues with sections covering methods for deep phylogenetic analysis, the role of metagenomic data in understanding the genomics of the many yet uncultured bacteria, progress in genome-to-phenome inference, as well as computational genomic tools. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include the type of practical detail necessary for reproducible results in the lab. Authoritative and up-to-date, Bacterial Pangenomics: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition serves as an ideal guide for both highly qualified investigators in bacterial genomics and for less experienced researchers, including students and teachers, who could use a reference for approaching genomic analysis and genome data.

Stem Cell Transcriptional Networks: Methods and Protocols collects techniques used to increase our understanding of the underlying transcriptional programs of stem cells that promote self-renewal and differentiation. The volume opens with a section on next-generation sequencing library preparation and data analysis. Continuing with a collection of protocols on visual analysis and interpretation of large-scale interaction networks, this detailed compilation features transcriptional networks in embryonic and adult stem cells, embryo culture and derivation of stem cells, as well as transcriptional programs that promote self-renewal, reprogramming, and transdifferentiation. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials, step-by-step, readily reproducible protocols and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Stem Cell Transcriptional Networks: Methods and Protocols aims to provide a key resource for biologists seeking to interrogate these vital networks.

Drawing on their extensive teaching experience, the authors bring the content to life using humorous and engaging language and show students how the principles of behavior relate to their everyday lives. The text's tried-and-true pedagogy make the content as clear as possible without oversimplifying the concepts. Each chapter includes study objectives, key terms, and review questions that encourage students to check their understanding before moving on, and incorporated throughout the text are real-world examples and case studies to illustrate key concepts and principles.This edition also features a new full-color design and nearly 400 color figures, tables, and graphs. The text is carefully tailored to the length of a standard academic semester and how behavior analysis courses are taught, with each section corresponding to a week's worth of coursework, and each chapter is integrated with the task list for Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) certifications.

This volume details protocols on rationale design of therapeutic siRNA molecules and its encapsulation with smart vehicles to overcome the barriers to an effective administration in vivo. 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. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Design and Delivery of SiRNA Therapeutics aims to ensure successful results in the further study of this vital field.

A TIMES ENVIRONMENT AND SCIENCE BOOK OF THE YEAR 2022 'Brilliant .. I cannot recommend this book strongly enough' - Henry Marsh, New Statesman (about The Idea of the Brain) A new gene editing technology, invented just seven years ago, has turned humanity into gods. Enabling us to manipulate the genes in virtually any organism with exquisite precision, CRISPR has given scientists a degree of control that was undreamt of even in science fiction. But CRISPR is just the latest, giant leap in a long journey to master genetics. The Genetic Age shows the astonishing, world-changing potential of the new genetics and the possible threats it poses, sifting between fantasy and the reality when it comes to both benefits and dangers. By placing each phase of discovery, anticipation and fear in the context of over fifty years of attempts to master the natural world, Matthew Cobb, the Baillie-Gifford-shortlisted author of The Idea of the Brain, weaves the stories of science, history and culture to shed new light on our future. With the powers now at our disposal, it is a future that is almost impossible to imagine - but it is one we will create ourselves.