Tea is an important non-alcoholic beverage plant of the world. Cultivation of tea is very important as it earns revenue for the tea growing nations especially the developing countries such as India. Although conventional breeding is well-established and has contributed significantly for varietal improvement of this plant and other Camellia species with ornamental value, yet applications of biotechnology are required to intervene some of the issues where conventional breeding is restricted particularly for woody plants such as tea. It is note-worthy to mention that some amounts of biotechnology works in several facets of tea and its wild species have also been done. In the present book, a state-of-the-art on various aspects of breeding and biotechnology has been complied in eight chapters. They are: i) Origin and descriptions of health benefits as well as morphological classification as first chapter, ii) Breeding and cytogenetics that comprise with various conventional approaches of varietal improvement of tea along with their genetic resources, iii) Micropropagation which deals with in-depth study of clonal propagation, iv) Somatic embryogenesis along with alternative techniques such as suspension culture, cry-preservation etc. v) Molecular breeding that deals with application of various DNA-based markers, linkage map etc., vi) Genetic transformation and associated factors, vii) Stress physiology complied with various works done in tea along with its wild relatives on abiotic as well as biotic stress, and viii) Functional genomics that describe the various works of molecular cloning and characterizations, differential gene expression, high-throughput sequencing, bioinformatics etc. Importantly, the author has made exclusive tables in most of the chapters that include the summary of the works in particular topic. In a nutshell, the book compiles the work already been done, identifies the problems, analyzes the gaps on breeding and biotechnological works of tea as well as its wild species and discusses the future scope as conclusion. Every effort has been made to include all the published works till June 2013. The book will be a useful resource for post-graduate, doctoral as well post-doctoral students working on tea as well as other woody plants. This will also be useful for the scientists working in the areas of life sciences, genomics, biotechnology and molecular biology.

Upstream processing refers to the production of proteins by cells genetically engineered to contain the human gene which will express the protein of interest. The demand for large quantities of specific proteins is increasing the pressure to boost cell culture productivity, and optimizing bioreactor output has become a primary concern for most pharmaceutical companies. Each chapter in Cell Culture and Upstream Processing is taken from presentations at the highly acclaimed IBC conferences as well as meetings of the European Society for Animal Cell Technology (ESACT) and Protein Expression in Animal Cells (PEACe) and describes how to improve yield and optimize the cell culture production process for biopharmaceuticals, by focusing on safety, quality, economics and operability and productivity issues. Cell Culture and Upstream Processing will appeal to a wide scientific audience, both professional practitioners of animal cell technology as well as students of biochemical engineering or biotechnology in graduate or high level undergraduate courses at university.

Site-specific mutagenesis of DNA, developed some thirty years ago, has proven to be one of the most important advances in biology. By allowing the site-specific replacement of any amino acid in a protein with one of the other nineteen amino acids, it ushered in the new era of "Protein Engineering." The field of protein engineering has, however, evolved rapidly since then and the last fifteen years have witnessed remarkable advances through the use of new chemical, biochemical and molecular biological tools towards the synthesis and manipulation of proteins. The chapters included in this book reflect the rapid evolution of protein engineering and its many applications in basic research, biotechnology, material sciences and therapy. This book will provide the reader with an introduction to state-of the-art concepts and methods and will be of use to anyone interested in the study of proteins, in academia as well as in industry.

This book is specifically about the application of the extremely powerful interaction between the protein avidin or its homologues and the vitamin biotin and some of its homologues. With excellent descriptions of laboratory protocols written by expert researchers, this volume is equally perfect for the student or the professional laboratory scientist.

This book surveys the current knowledge concerning the expression and function of small stress proteins (sHsps) in different organisms, ranging from prokaryotes to humans. It provides an overview of the diversity and complex evolutionary history of sHsps and describes their function and expression in different eukaryote models. Additional chapters discuss the involvement of sHsps in pathological conditions and gene therapy approaches towards a control of sHsp expression levels.

This book provides the basis for understanding the elastic properties of nucleic acids (DNA, RNA), the methods used to manipulate them (e.g. optical, magnetic and acoustic tweezers and traps), and how to observe their interactions with proteins (e.g. fluorescence microscopy, FCS, FRET, etc.). It then exemplifies the use of these various methods in the study of three families of DNA enzymes: polymerases, helicases and topoisomerases. The book aims not to be exhaustive, but rather to stimulate the imagination of readers in the application of these single molecule approaches to the study of DNA/RNA and their interactions.

This new edition features research from nearly 60 of the profession's most distinguished international authorities. Recognizing emerging developments in biopolymer systems research with fully updated and expanded chapters, the second edition discusses the biopolymer-based multilayer structures and their application in biosensors, the progress made in the understanding of protein behaviour at the air-water interface, experimental findings in ellipsometry and reflectometry, and recent developments concerning protein interfacial behaviour in microfabricated total analysis systems and microarrays. With over 3000 references, this is an essential reference for professionals and students in surface, pharmaceutical, colloid, polymer, and medicinal chemistry; chemical, formulation, and application engineering; and pharmacy.

To comprehend the organizational principle of cellular functions at diff erent levels, an integrative approach with large-scale experiments, the so-called 'omics' data including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, is needed. Omics aims at the collective characterization and quantifi cation of pools of biological molecules that translate into the structure, function, and dynamics of an organism or organisms. Currently, omics is an essential tool to understand the molecular systems that underlie various plant functions. Furthermore, in several plant species, the development of omicsresources has progressed to address the particular biological properties of individual species. Integration of knowledge from omics-based research is an emerging issue as researchers seek to identify significance, gain biological insights and promote translational research. From these perspectives, we intend to provide the emerging aspects of plant systems research based on omics and bioinformatics analyses together with their associated resources and technological advances. Th e present book covers a wide range of omics topics, and discusses the latest trends and application area of plant sciences. In this volume, we have highlighted the working solutions as well as open problems and future challenges in plant omics studies. We believe that this book will initiate and introduce readers to state-of-the-art developments and trends in omics-driven research.

This detailed volume explores protocols for studying the many facets of Ca2+-imaging, Ca2+-signaling, and Ca2+-binding along with background information on the principles and application of these techniques. The content of the book delves into 48 chapters including subjects such as data analysis and modern technologies to study calcium-binding and signaling in cells, the superfamily of calcium-binding proteins characterized by the EF-hand structural motif, as well as their use as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers in Laboratory Medicine and novel therapeutic drug targets. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, 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 comprehensive, Calcium-Binding Proteins of the EF-Hand Superfamily: From Basics to Medical Applications presents state-of-the-art, lab-based methods and easy-to-follow protocols for daily use, making it interesting for basic and medical researchers, cell- and molecular biologists, clinicians, clinical chemists, and the diagnostic industry.

This second edition volume expands all chapters of the previous edition, which have been enhanced to cover the most recent developments, the current state of method research, and applications. Additional protocols were added to examine lipid-protein interactions by mass spectrometry, to use protein microarrays to investigate large sets of various proteins, to study membrane protein dynamics by UV resonance Raman spectroscopy, to analyze peptide-induced pore formation in membranes, and to investigate folding and insertion of membrane proteins. 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, Lipid-Protein Interactions: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition is an essential resource for all researchers who are interested in obtaining up-to-date and comprehensive information about membrane structure and function.

This volume presents an overview of contemporary quantitative proteomics methods along with instructions on data interpretation, while providing examples on how to implement proteomics into systems biology. 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. Thorough and practical, Proteomics in Systems Biology: Methods and Protocols is a valuable resource for researchers who are interested in using proteomics techniques to help answer biological and medical questions.

Through all of the recent progress provided by high throughput DNA sequencing technologies, it has become clearer and clearer that the study of proteins and protein organelles will be the key to unlocking our ability to manipulate cells and intervene in human disease. In Protein Expression in Mammalian Cells: Methods and Protocols, expert researchers in the field present a compendium of vital techniques to further our knowledge of mammalian protein expression. 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 for troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and concise, Protein Expression in Mammalian Cells: Methods and Protocols will aid scientists seeking to delve deeper into our own biology through the medium of other mammalian cells and proteins.

This book summarizes present knowledge of different mechanisms involved in the development of positive and negative consequences of cardiac adaptation. Particular attention is paid to the still underestimated adaptive cardiac responses during development, to adaptation to the frequently occurring pressure and volume overload as well as to cardiac changes, induced by enduring exercise and chronic hypoxia. "Cardiac Adaptations" will be of great value to cardiovascular investigators, who will find this book highly useful in their cardiovascular studies for finding solutions in diverse pathological conditions; it will also appeal to students, fellows, scientists, and clinicians interested in cardiovascular abnormalities."

Among the many types of DNA binding domains, C2H2 zinc finger proteins (ZFPs) have proven to be the most malleable for creating custom DNA-binding proteins. In Engineered Zinc Finger Proteins: Methods and Protocols, expert researchers from some of the most active laboratories in this field present detailed methods, guidance, and perspectives. The volume contains sections covering the engineering of ZFPs, methods for the creation, evaluation, and delivery of artificial transcription factors (ATFs), methods for the creation and evaluation of zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), and a collection of the several applications and assays beyond ATFs and ZFNs, including zinc finger transposases and ChIP-seq methodology amongst other subjects. 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 notes on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Comprehensive and cutting-edge, Engineered Zinc Finger Proteins: Methods and Protocols aims to aid both seasoned practitioners and new investigators with its vital methods and insights as they seek to create the next generation of engineered ZFPs and applications.

The modern biosciences make many new proteins available. Nevertheless the handling of these proteins is quite difficult due to problems with their stability. This collection gives - in the form of tables - protein stability data for various temperatures and solvents. These data are most useful for the development of protein folding and the improvement of biotechnological stability for applications of proteins.

How does the chemical description of a protein relate to its three-dimensional structure? How does the three-dimensional structure relate to the machinery that brings about a chemical reaction? How does the sequence of a gene encode not only the sequence of a protein but, more importantly, the architecture and function of that protein? Protein Structure and Function provides a clear and critical survey of our current understanding of the structure and function of proteins to answer questions such as these. Opening with a consideration of the link between protein sequence and structure, it goes on to explore the structural basis of protein function and how this function is controlled. Finally, it examines a range of case studies that illuminate the range of roles performed by proteins, and the diverse structures these proteins exhibit. Protein Structure and Function combines articulate prose with striking full colour illustrations, while the unique Primers in Biology modular structure integrates text, illustrations, definitions, and literature references for each topic into one double-page spread, bringing to the student's fingertips all the tools that they need to master that topic. Online Resource Centre The Online Resource Centre features figures from the book available to download, for registered adopters of the book.

"Hauser and Wagner have presented the new possibilities of Mammalian Cell Biology in a very informative and stimulating manner." Prof. Dr. Hans Fritz, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich

This detailed book gathers a broad collection of experimental approaches to assist researchers in setting up different methods to investigate protein conformational disorders. Beginning with a section on assays focusing on biophysical approaches to study protein (mis)folding, the volume continues with sections on cellular and proteostasis assays as well as assays for protein folding correction and recovery, combining methods such as thermal shift assays, in silico improvement of protein solubility, and compound screening, an important area of research as it may open avenues for therapeutic strategies. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips for troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and practical, Protein Misfolding Diseases: Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal guide for researchers seeking to advance our knowledge of protein conformational disorders.

The Coronin Family of Proteins Christoph S. Clemen, * Vasily Rybakin and Ludwig Eichinger he coronins, first described in Dictyostelium discoideum in 1991, have meanwhile been detected in all eukaryotes except plants. They belong to the superfamily of WD40-repeat Tproteins and represent a large family of proteins, which are often involved in cytoskeletal functions. Phylogenetic studies clearly distinguish 12 subfamilies of which six exclusively occur in vertebrates. In the present book we have made a sincere attempt to provide a comprehensive overview on all aspects of coronin proteins including history, structure, subcellular localization and function in different organisms. In addition, we also included a general overview on the WD40 family of proteins and the structurally related Kelch family. The book should be of interest for scientists outside the field, but is more importantly intended as a fast and competent guide for newcomers as well as doctoral and postdoctoral scientists to coronin research in all its facets. The book is divided into four major sections. It provides in the first part an introduction into two superfamilies of proteins with p-propellers, the WD40- and the Kelch-family. Lynn Cooley and Andrew M. Hudson provide evidence that the WD40- and Kelch-repeat families most likely did Figure 1. Condensed phylogenetic tree of the coronin protein family. The tree constitutes the basis of a new nomenclature and shows the evolutionary relationship of the twelve coronin subfamilies {CRN1-CRN12). See also chapter 11-2 by Reginald O. Morgan and M. Pilar Fernandez

An up-to-date overview of the dynamic field of whey protein utilization Whey Protein Production, Chemistry, Functionality and Applications explores the science and technology behind the rapidly increasing popularity of this most versatile of dairy by-products. With its richly nutritious qualities, whey protein has been widely used in the food industry for many years. The last decade has, however, seen manufacturers develop many innovative and exciting new applications for it, both in food and other areas. Taking account of these advances, this insightful work offers a full explanation of the technological and chemical breakthroughs that have made whey protein more in-demand than ever before. Topics covered include manufacturing technologies, thermal and chemical modifications, non-food uses, denaturation and interactions, and more. In its broad scope, the book encompasses: An up-to-date overview of recent developments and new applications Breakdowns of the chemical, nutritional, and functional properties of whey protein Commentary on the current and future outlooks of the whey protein market Examinations of the methods and manufacturing technologies that enable whey protein recovery A full guide to the numerous applications of whey protein in food production and other industries Whey Protein Production, Chemistry, Functionality and Applications is an unparalleled source of information on this highly adaptable and much sought-after commodity, and is essential reading for food and dairy scientists, researchers and graduate students, and professionals working in the food formulation and dairy processing industries.

This book presents a compilation of methods that detail improved protein and peptide sample preparation and identification. Chapters guide readers through methods for depletion of myofibril-associated proteins, peptide sample preparation in urinary proteomics, purification of targeted proteins from native tissues, fractionation strategies for protein analysis, and GeLC-MS as a sample preparation method for sample preparation for proteomics using minimal amount of tissue. 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, Tissue Proteomics: Methods and Protocols, Second Edition aims to ensure successful results in the further study of this vital field.

A common approach to understanding the functional repertoire of a genome is through functional genomics. With systems biology burgeoning, bioinformatics has grown to a larger extent for plant genomes where several applications in the form of protein-protein interactions (PPI) are used to predict the function of proteins. With plant genes evolutionarily conserved, the science of bioinformatics in agriculture has caught interest with myriad of applications taken from bench side to in silico studies. A multitude of technologies in the form of gene analysis, biochemical pathways and molecular techniques have been exploited to an extent that they consume less time and have been cost-effective to use. As genomes are being sequenced, there is an increased amount of expression data being generated from time to time matching the need to link the expression profiles and phenotypic variation to the underlying genomic variation. This would allow us to identify candidate genes and understand the molecular basis/phenotypic variation of traits. While many bioinformatics methods like expression and whole genome sequence data of organisms in biological databases have been used in plants, we felt a common reference showcasing the reviews for such analysis is wanting. We envisage that this dearth would be facilitated in the form of this Springer book on Agricultural Bioinformatics. We thank all the authors and the publishers Springer, Germany for providing us an opportunity to review the bioinformatics works that the authors have carried in the recent past and hope the readers would find this book attention grabbing.

This book summarizes the early successes, drawbacks and accomplishments in cell biology and cell biotechnology achieved by the latest projects performed on the International Space Station ISS. It also depicts outcomes of experiments in tissue engineering, cancer research and drug design and reveals the chances that research in Space offers for medical application on Earth. This SpringerBriefs volume provides an overview on the latest international activities in Space and gives an outlook on the potential of biotechnological research in Space in future. This volume is written for students and researchers in Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Pharmacology and may specifically be of interest to scientists with focus on protein sciences, crystallization, tissue engineering, drug design and cancer research.

This volume arranged into three sections describes biochemical, in vitro, and in vivo protocols on Semaphorins. Chapters focus on approaches that would allow the novice to study Semaphorins and employ robust assays to characterize mechanisms of action. 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, Semaphorin Signaling: Methods and Protocols aims to ensure successful results in the further study of this vital field.

The book gives a comprehensive review of the most advanced multiscale methods for protein structure prediction, computational studies of protein dynamics, folding mechanisms and macromolecular interactions. It approaches span a wide range of the levels of coarse-grained representations, various sampling techniques and variety of applications to biomedical and biophysical problems. This book is intended to be used as a reference book for those who are just beginning their adventure with biomacromolecular modeling but also as a valuable source of detailed information for those who are already experts in the field of biomacromolecular modeling and in related areas of computational biology or biophysics.