Since the discovery of Aquaporin-1 (AQP1) as a water channel, many studies have revealed the importance of aquaporins in mammalian physiology and pathophysiology as well as plant and microbial biology. The studies have also shown aquaporins as potential drug targets and targets for improving crop properties. Written by an international group of contributors at the forefront of the field, Aquaporins in Health and Disease: New Molecular Targets for Drug Discovery presents the latest research advances in aquaporins and other major intrinsic protein (MIP) channels. The first section of the book describes the general concepts of aquaporin channel function, genomic research, structure-function analysis of aquaporins and glycerol facilitators, and regulation by gating and trafficking, including yeast aquaporin regulation and function. The second section discusses the physiological and pathophysiological roles of aquaporins in humans and microbes. The final section covers the development of inhibitors of aquaporin function. The book's epilogue offers future perspectives and directions, mainly in the area of aquaporin-based diagnostics and therapeutics. Stimulating future research on this important protein family, this book facilitates a paradigm shift in the understanding and roles of aquaporin membrane proteins in all biological settings. It encourages scientists to develop novel approaches for the treatment of human diseases based on aquaporin function or dysfunction.

Metal-based anticancer drugs are among the most successful therapeutic agents, as evidenced by the frequent prescription of selected platinum and arsenic compounds to patients. Metal-based Anticancer Agents covers the interdisciplinary world of inorganic drug discovery and development by introducing the most prominent compound classes based on different transition metals, discussing emerging concepts and enabling methods, as well as presenting key pre-clinical and clinical aspects. Recent progress on the unique features of next-generation targeted metal-based anticancer agents, including supramolecular coordination complexes used for both therapy and drug delivery, promise a bright future beyond the benefits of pure cytotoxic activity. With contributions from global leaders in the field, this book will serve as a useful reference to established researchers as well as a practical guide to those new to metallodrugs, and postgraduate students of medicinal chemistry and metallobiology.