Immunotherapy refers to harnessing the immune system to treat cancer and infectious diseases. The immune system is robust enough to fight microbes and also perform what is termed as immune surveillance or checking for any alterations in cells. The idea of immunotherapy is hence simple-it activates the immune system to target pathogens or cancer cells. Given these interesting aspects, this book covers the history and basics of immunotherapy. Apart from discussing the approaches, the aspects of challenges are presented. These include honing the specificity and the cost of the therapy. Potential solutions to overcome these challenges have been presented. Thus, a reader can read this concise book that presents the fundamentals of immunotherapy without getting overwhelmed.

Carbohydrates are present in whole grains and potatoes, as well as, other sources. Apart from providing a quick source of energy (remember the rejuvenating effect of glucose -based drinks or eating a fruit?), these molecules assume several roles in organisms. The roles include structural strength (cellulose and pectin), signaling, host-pathogen interactions (glycoproteins), and even as treatment approaches. As far as their intake is concerned, researchers suggest that more than the quantity or the percentage of carbohydrates consumed, the quality is important. Amongst the various carbohydrate sources, the consumption of whole grains is recommended along with legumes that contain other nutrients like proteins. We believe that the readers find this book informative as information on all aspects of carbohydrates has been compiled in this single book.

There are 2 techniques that are commonly employed in research labs: gel electrophoresis and blotting. Following electrophoresis, separated nucleic acids and proteins can be transferred to a membrane where they are analyzed or detected. Depending on the molecule being analyzed, Southern blot refers to transfer and studying DNA, Northern blotting refers to RNA, Western blotting to proteins and eastern blotting for post-translational modifications. Given the importance of blotting in the lab, this book comes at an opportune time. The book discusses the protocols and applications of blotting-Southern, western, northern and eastern blotting. Case studies have also presented to help the reader gain insights into the practicality and applicability of blotting in today's world. The editors hope that this book will serve as a lab staple just like the aforementioned blotting techniques.

We turn off switches every day-can we turn off a gene or a group of genes? Sounds exciting? Read ahead. Researchers are using the property of RNA interference to silence several genes that have opened up the use of siRNAs in the analysis of the various genes that are involved or implicated in diseases. This book is a concise presentation of RNA silencing: the mechanisms involved have been discussed along with figures. The various patents, research strategies and the market for RNAi-based therapeutics have also been presented for the readers to understand the exact scenario in this one concise book that will "silence" your questions!

The recent incidence of Coronavirus took a toll across the world (close to 16,362 mortalities as of 25th March 2020) involves the maintenance of social distancing and frequent washing to lower the occurrence of the disease. Basic hygiene practices advocated to lower the transmission of the disease are not touching the mouth or face-basic lessons in hygiene we learned in school are reemerging as points to prevent this deadly epidemic. In this concise book, the salient concepts of hygiene have been covered with practical applications in today's life. The familiar saying "Cleanliness is next to Godliness" becomes a reality even in today's world for mindful and healthy living!

While history says the earliest recorded influenza epidemic was in 1500; we have heard of epidemics throughout history: from the 1918 Spanish flu to the current 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. This book discusses the "killer" viruses in terms of their transmission, control, and prevention. Current research has also been presented to add practicality and relevance. This is one concise book that presents data on the go to get an idea of the major epidemics and the viruses behind them.

We have heard the phrase "master of disguise" right from childhood. While we disguise or camouflage our "emotions" or "scars", plants and animals camouflage themselves for protection. This book is a concise presentation of camouflage encompassing the plant, animal, and human worlds. Plants were initially considered defenseless and senseless creatures. However, certain examples of mottled leaves called disruptive coloration prevent easy recognition by color blind herbivores. This book is a concise presentation of camouflage encompassing the plant, animal, and human worlds. Plants were initially considered defenseless and senseless creatures. However, certain examples of mottled leaves called disruptive coloration prevent easy recognition by color blind herbivores. Similarly, several examples of camouflage in the animal kingdom have been discussed to gain a snapshot of this interesting aspect of biology.