In the past decade, since the first edition was published, the study of cereal protein chemistry has grown and changed. New separation techniques have been introduced while the application of achievements of molecular biology and genetic engineering of proteins has progressed dramatically. This new edition includes these advances and updates the chemistry of cereal proteins for all specialists working in theory and practice of cereal grain production and processing.

This volume provides a thorough overview of current knowledge of stress proteins in both normal and disease physiology. It draws upon current stress protein research to evaluate the potential for developing new diagnostic, prophylactic and therapeutic approaches to control human disease.

This highly authoritative volume highlights the remarkable superfamily of molecular motors called myosins, which are involved in such diverse cellular functions as muscle contraction, intracellular transport, cell migration and cell division. In a timely compilation of chapters written by leading research groups that have made key discoveries in the field, the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms and biological functions of these intriguing proteins is explored.

During the last two decades, there has been an explosion of research pertaining to the molecular mechanisms that allow for organisms to detect different stimuli that is an essential feature for their survival. Among these mechanisms, living beings need to be able to respond to different temperatures as well as chemical and physical stimuli. Thermally activated ion channels were proposed to be present in sensory neurons in the 1980s, but it was not until 1997 that a heat- and capsaicin- activated ion channel, TRPV1, was cloned and its function described in detail. This groundbreaking discovery led to the identification and characterization of several more proteins of the family of Transient Receptor Potential (TRP) ion channels. Intensive research has provided us with the atomic structures of some of these proteins, as well as understanding of their physiological roles, both in normal and pathological conditions. With chapters contributed by renowned experts in the field, Neurobiology of TRP Channels contains a state- of- the- art overview of our knowledge of TRP channels, ranging from structure to their functions in organismal physiology. Features: * Contains chapters on the roles of several TRP ion channels with a diversity of physiological functions, providing a complete picture of the widespread importance of these proteins. * Presents an overview of the structure of TRP channels, including the roles of these proteins in different physiological processes. * Discusses the roles of TRP channels in pathophysiological processes, further highlighting their importance. * Features several full color illustrations to allow the reader better comprehension of TRP channels. A volume in the Frontiers in Neuroscience series

The Latest Developments on the Role of Dynamics in Protein Functions Computational Approaches to Protein Dynamics: From Quantum to Coarse-Grained Methods presents modern biomolecular computational techniques that address protein flexibility/dynamics at all levels of theory. An international contingent of leading researchers in chemistry, physics, and biology show how these advanced methods provide insights into dynamic aspects of biochemical processes. A particular focus is on intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs), which lack a well-defined three-dimensional structure and function as dynamic ensembles. The book covers a wide spectrum of dynamics, from electronic structure-based to coarse-grained techniques via multiscaling at different levels. After an introduction to dynamics and historical overview of basic methodologies, the book addresses the following issues: Is there a quantitative relationship between enzymatic catalysis and protein dynamics? Which are the functionally relevant motions of proteins? How can structural properties and partner recognition mechanisms of IDPs be simulated? How can we speed up molecular dynamics? How can we describe conformational ensembles by the synergistic effort of computations and experiments? While dynamics is now considered essential for interpreting protein action, it is not yet an integral component in establishing structure-function relationships of proteins. Helping to reshape this classical view in biochemistry, this groundbreaking book explores advances in computational methodology and contributes to the new, ensemble way of studying proteins.

Transcriptional regulation controls the basic processes of life. Its complex, dynamic, and hierarchical networks control the momentary availability of messenger RNAs for protein synthesis. Transcriptional regulation is key to cell division, development, tissue differen- ation, and cancer as discussed in Chapters 1 and 2. We have witnessed rapid, major developments at the intersection of computational biology, experimental technology, and statistics. A decade ago, researches were struggling with notoriously challenging predictions of isolated binding sites from low-throughput experiments. Now we can accurately predict cis-regulatory modules, conserved cl- ters of binding sites (Chapters 13 and 15), partly based on high-throughput ch- matin immunoprecipitation experiments in which tens of millions of DNA segments are sequenced by massively parallel, next-generation sequencers (ChIP-seq, Chapters 9, 10, and 11). These spectacular developments have allowed for the genome-wide mappings of tens of thousands of transcription factor binding sites in yeast, bacteria, mammals, insects, worms, and plants. Please also note the no less spectacular failures in many laboratories around the world.

Acute Phase Proteins covers all major aspects of acute phase proteins (APP) starting with molecular mechanisms regulating their synthesis and ending with their functional significance. The book features 36 chapters addressing such topics as acute phase response and the APP; major APP and their structure and functions; regulation of APP synthesis, the cytokines and hormones implicated in these processes, and molecular mechanisms involved; signal transduction of cytokines in hepatocytes and posttranscriptional processes; and quantitative and qualitative evaluation of APP in clinical practice. The book will be an important reference for immunologists, molecular biologists, cellular biologists, biochemists, and clinical chemists.

This volume provides a state-of-the-art update on Fc Receptors (FcRs). It is divided into five parts. Part I, Old and New FcRs, deals with the long-sought-after FcR and the recently discovered FCRL family and TRIM21. Part II, FcR Signaling, presents a computational model of Fc RI signaling, novel calcium channels, and the lipid phosphatase SHIP1. Part III, FcR Biology, addresses major physiological functions of FcRs, their glycosylation, how they induce and regulate both adaptive immune responses and inflammation, especially in vivo, FcR humanized mice, and the multifaceted properties of FcRn. Part IV, FcRs and Disease, discusses FcR polymorphism, FcRs in rheumatoid arthritis and whether their FcRs make macaques good models for studying HIV infection. In Part V, FcRs and Therapeutic Antibodies, the roles of various FcRs, including Fc RIIB and Fc RI, in the immunotherapy of cancer and autoimmune diseases using monoclonal antibodies and IVIg are highlighted. All 18 chapters were written by respected experts in their fields, offering an invaluable reference source for scientists and clinicians interested in FcRs and how to better master antibodies for therapeutic purposes.

This book provides an overview of the biology and biochemistry of peroxisomes, and discusses the contribution of these organelles to peroxisomal and neurodegenerative diseases. It begins with a detailed introduction to the biogenesis and metabolic functions of peroxisomes, and highlights their role in oxidative stress and in lipid metabolism such as fatty acid oxidation. The following chapters focus on the molecular and clinical aspects of peroxisomal disorders caused by defects in peroxisomal function. In particular, the biological aspects of peroxisomal biogenesis disorders such as Zellweger syndrome and Heimler syndrome are discussed. This includes their underlying genetic causes as well as the biochemical and metabolic defects associated with the disorders. In addition, several chapters cover recent observations suggesting an association between peroxisomal dysfunction and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Multiple Sclerosis and other degenerative cerebellar pathologies. The final section of the book discusses important cell and animal models for studying the role of peroxisomes in human diseases and presents current therapeutic strategies for their treatment. This book deals with a highly topical subject that is at the heart of current research, and represents a valuable contribution for all students and researchers who want to understand the complex biology of peroxisomes and their role in human diseases.

This volume provides methods for modern macromolecular crystallography, including all steps leading to crystal structure determination and analysis. 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 practical, Protein Crystallography aims to ensure successful results in the further study of this vital field.

This book focuses on histone mutations, especially those mutations closely related to cancer. Genetic mutations and epigenetic alterations contribute to the development of a variety of cancers: recent genetic studies have identified e.g. H3K27M and H3G34R/V mutation in over 75% of DIPG cases, H3.3K36M mutation in more than 90% of chondroblastoma cases, and H3G34W/L mutation in over 90% of giant cell tumors of bone. Given the high incidence and tumorigenesis effects of histone H3 mutations, they are also referred to as oncohistones. This book highlights the advances made in the area over the past 10 years, and offers a state-of-the-art summary of epigenetic alternation, gene expression, protein structure, drug discovery, immunotherapy, and mouse modeling of histone H3 mutations in various tumors. Chiefly intended to provide researchers and graduate students with an overall picture of these mutations, it will also be of interest to researchers in basic oncology, clinical oncology, and epigenetics, as well as academics and clinical oncology practitioners.

Provides up-to-date information on all aspects of basic and applied research on quinoproteins and quinonoid co-factors such as pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) - exploring the scope, direction and potential value of investigations in this multidisciplinary field.

Plant Proteomics highlights rapid progress in this field, with emphasis on recent work in model plant species, sub-cellular organelles, and specific aspects of the plant life cycle such as signaling, reproduction and stress physiology. Several chapters present a detailed look at diverse integrated approaches, including advanced proteomic techniques combined with functional genomics, bioinformatics, metabolomics and molecular cell biology, making this book a valuable resource for a broad spectrum of readers.

Fills a gap between the existing studies of proteins, which tend to be highly technical and geared toward the practicing protein chemist, and biochemistry textbooks, which focus on general principles. Scientists cover a dozen topics by presenting fundamental principles, an overview, and the practica

Lactoferrin is an iron-binding glycoprotein belonging to the transferrin family. It acts as a defense in host animals against microbes and viruses, since it has a broad spectrum of antimicrobial and antiviral activities. Lactoferrin has been shown to regulate the growth and differentiation of many types of cells. The results of recent studies indicate that lactoferrin is a potent regulator of dermal fibroblasts, and promotes cutaneous wound healing. The collagen gel contraction, a model of wound contraction during wound healing process, and migration of human fibroblasts were enhanced by lactoferrin. LRP-1 (LDL Receptor related Protein-1) acts as a signaling receptor for lactoferrin that mediate fibroblast response to lactoferrin by activating ERK/MAPK signaling pathway. In addition, lactoferrin promotes biosynthesis of extracellular matrix (ECM) component such as type-I collagen and hyaluronan. Hyaluronan is a major component of ECM in connective tissue and promotes wound healing. The promoting effect of lactoferrin on hyaluronan production was accompanied by promotion of HAS2 (hyaluronan synthase 2) expression. These observations suggest that lactoferrin promotes the wound healing by providing an ECM that promotes fibroblast migration. Lactoferrin is also known for its anti-inflammatory and immune modulating properties. According to recent in vivo study, lactoferrin promotes wound repair by promoting the early inflammatory phase of wound healing. Based on this, recombinant human lactoferrin was subsequently tested clinically in a Phase II trial in patients with diabetic ulcers and was found to be effective. Lactoferrin should be further evaluated in patients with diabetic and other types of ulcers.

Membrane proteins play key roles in numerous cellular processes, in particular mediating cell-to-cell communication and signaling events that lead to a multitude of biological effects. Membrane proteins have also been implicated in many critical diseases such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes and cancer. In Membrane Protein Structure Predictions Methods: Methods and Protocols, expert researcher in the field detail the advances in both experimental and computational approaches of the structure, dynamics and interactions of membrane proteins dividing the volume into two sections. The first section details the procedures used for measurements of structure and dynamics of membrane proteins. While the second section contains a survey of the computational methods that have played a critical role in membrane protein structure prediction as well as in providing atomic level insight into the mechanism of the dynamics of membrane receptors. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology (TM) series format, the chapters include the kind of detailed description and implementation advice that is crucial for getting optimal results in the laboratory. Thorough and intuitive, Membrane Protein Structure Predicitons: Methods and Protocols seeks to aid scientists in the further study of membrane protein structure and function.

This book presents a comprehensive overview of important immune molecules and their structure-function relationships. The immune system is highly complex, consisting of a network of molecules, cells, tissues and organs, and the immune reaction is involved in various physiological as well as pathological processes, including development, self-tolerance, infection, immunity, and cancer. Numerous molecules participate in immune recognition, inhibition and activation, and these important immune molecules can be roughly divided into cell surface receptors, intracellular receptors and intracellular signaling molecules. The study of how these immune molecules function at molecular level has laid the foundation for understanding the immune system. The book provides researchers and students with the latest research advances concerning the structural biology of key immune molecules/pathways, and offers immunologists essential insights into how these immune molecules function.

This book discusses the European Union's approach to governance reform in its development assistance relationships with various groups of developing countries. A group of expert authors outline the general features of the position on governance taken by the EU, which is currently the major multilateral donor of development assistance, and discuss the implementation of EU policies in a set of cases: the group of African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states, the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD), Southeastern Europe, Central Asia, the Euro-Mediterranean, Latin America and fragile states. The contributions to the book argue that the EU's position on governance reform, particularly since the adoption of the European Consensus on Development in 2005, has had distinctly neoliberal overtones. The EU's governance-related strategies have been instrumental to deepening market-based reform in aid-receiving countries. Policies on state-building adopted by the EU reflect mainly the interests of and ideas embraced by the EU and its member states. To an important extent, the rhetoric accompanying EU policies does not match with the political and social dynamics inherent in governance structures on the ground in many of its aid-recipient partner countries. This book was published as a special issue of Third World Quarterly.

This text presents the application of current nutritional knowledge by physicians and dietitians and incorporates emerging fields of science and important discoveries. It contains seven major sections. Section 1: Basic Processes at the Cellular Levels, Section 2: Arginine Metabolism and Functions, Section 3: Arginine Status in Cells Related to Organ Damage and Disease, Section 4: Arginine Status and Use in Healthy Individuals, Section 5: Arginine and Diseases of the Gastrointestinal Tract, Section 6: Therapeutic uses of Arginine: Diabetes, Obesity and Cardiovascular Diseases and Section 7: Therapeutic Uses of Arginine: Cancer, Wound Healing and Infectious Disease. Written by authors of international and national standing, leaders in the field and trendsetters, Arginine in Clinical Nutrition is essential reading for nutritionists and dietitians, public health scientists, doctors, epidemiologists, health care professionals of various disciplines, policy makers and marketing and economic strategists.

Volume II features a variety of animal and human prion diseases, including the newly-identified atypical forms of bovine spongiform encephalopathy and scrapie in animals, and variably protease-sensitive prionopathy in humans, prions in the environment, Tau pathology in human prion disease, transmission of the disease by blood transfusion, mammalian and non-mammalian models, conventional and advanced diagnoses, prion-specific antibodies, as well as decontamination of prions and development of therapeutics of prion diseases, such as the application of immunomodulation. This volume provides up-to-date knowledge about the etiology, pathogenesis, classification, histopathological, and clinical aspects of the highly publicized animal and human prion diseases.

This book is a collection of critical reviews of the use of high-performance liquid chromatography in a very specialized area of research. It describes in detail modern methodology to separate nucleic acids, enzymes and a wide variety of biologically active proteins such as renin.

The chemistry of the five principal plant hormone groups is discussed in detail in this volume. Contributing authors review history and occurrence of each hormone group, methods of isolation and detection, biosynthesis and metabolism, and structural determination. Through these analyses, the authors clarify the role of endogenous plant growth regulators in the life cycle of higher plants. The text is supplemented with over 350 figures and structures of various plant hormones.

This volume highlights recent progress on the fundamental chemistry and mechanistic understanding of metallocofactors, with an emphasis on the major development in these areas from the perspective of bioinorganic chemistry. Metallocofactors are essential for all forms of life and include a variety of metals, such as iron, molybdenum, vanadium, and nickel. Structurally fascinating metallocofactors featuring these metals are present in many bacteria and mediate remarkable metabolic redox chemistry with small molecule substrates, including N2, CO, H2, and CO2. Current interest in understanding how these metallocofactors function at the atomic level is enormous, especially in the context of sustainably feeding and fueling our planet; if we can understand how these cofactors work, then there is the possibility to design synthetic catalysts that function similarly.

It is increasingly clear that signal transduction is a highly organized and integrated process. Divided into two convenient sections, Signal Transduction Protocols, Third Edition focuses on experimental approaches to better understand the complexity of signal transduction. Introductory chapters provide perspective on several of the challenges involved in signal transduction research and offer guidance on selecting the best approaches to various types of questions. The individual chapters provide detailed experimental protocols covering various topics, from the effects of ligand binding on receptor conformation and effector coupling, to moving inside the cell in order to capture the spatial and temporal characteristics of signaling events. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology (TM) series format, chapters contain introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and notes on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and accessible, Signal Transduction Protocols serves as an ideal guide to scientists of all backgrounds and is a valuable resource for future progress in the field of signal transduction research.