Heterocyclic chemistry is the largest of the classical divisions of organic chemistry. Heterocyclic compounds are widely distributed in Nature, playing a vital role in the metabolism of living cells. Their practical applications range from extensive clinical use to fields as diverse as agriculture, photography, biocide formulation and polymer science. The range of known compounds is enormous, encompassing the whole spectrum of physical, chemical and biological properties.
This book provides a balanced, a concise and informative account of heterocyclic chemistry that will be suitable for graduate or advanced undergraduate students and a convenient reference book for research workers, for both specialists int he field and those whose expertise lies in other areas but who nevertheless need information on heterocylic chemistry.
The Handbook of Heterocyclic Chemistry is illustrated throughout with thousands of clearly drawn chemical structures. The highly systematic coverage given to the subject makes this the most authoritative one-volume account of modern heterocyclic chemistry available.
* Provides a balanced, concise and informative account of heterocyclic chemistry
* Written by leading scholars and industry experts
* Illustrated throughout with thousands of clearly drawn chemical structures
* The most authoritative one-volume account of modern heterocyclic chemistry available

"Heterocycles in Life and Society" is an introduction to the chemistry of heterocyclic compounds, focusing on their origin and occurrence in nature, biochemical significance and wide range of applications. Written in a readable and accessible style, the book takes a multidisciplinary approach to this extremely important area of organic chemistry.

Topics covered include an introduction to the structure and properties of heterocycles; the key role of heterocycles in important life processes such as the transfer of hereditary information, how enzymes function, the storage and transport of bioenergy, and photosynthesis; applications of heterocycles in medicine, agriculture and industry; heterocycles in supramolecular chemistry; the origin of heterocycles on primordial Earth; and how heterocycles can help us solve 21st century challenges.

For this second edition, "Heterocycles in Life and Society" has been completely revised and expanded, drawing on a decade of innovation in heterocyclic chemistry. The new edition includes discussions of the role of heterocycles in nanochemistry, green chemistry, combinatorial chemistry, molecular devices and sensors, and supramolecular chemistry. Impressive achievements include the creation of various molecular devices, the recording and storage of information, the preparation of new organic conductors, and new effective drugs and pesticides with heterocyclic structures. Much new light has been thrown on various life processes, while the chemistry of heterocycles has expanded to include new types of heterocyclic structures and reactions, and the use of heterocyclic molecules as ionic liquids and proton sponges.

"Heterocycles in Life and Society" is an essential guide to this important field for students and researchers in chemistry, biochemistry, and drug discovery, and scientists at all levels wishing to expand their scientific horizon.