The development of "invertebrate and fish tissue cultures," the characterization and application of new cell lines for the evaluation of physiological and endocrinological cell parameters, cell differentiation, gene expression and pathological and microbiological problems are treated in detail. New techniques for the production of specific proteins in vitro are described. Highlights derive from results of studies on the molecular mechanisms of gene regulation using DNA mediated gene transfer techniques, on the influence of ecdysterone on the differentiation of embryonic cells, and on metabolic processes of cells in culture leading to the identification of functions for individual ribosomal proteins. Data on the establishment of new cell lines, their simplified culture media, and on the special use of cell cultures for the evaluation of the cytotoxicity, accumulation, and metabolization of insecticides are discussed.

During the course of the last two decades, the health effects of tea and its catechins have been docmnented in nmnerous scientific studies and the scientific basis of these effects has been elaborated. Professor Kuroda and Dr. Hara provide in this volmne a translation of a thorough and extensive book published earlier (in Japanese), which will be of considerable interest to scientists worldng in the field, and to members of the general public interested in naturaJ ways of maintaining health. Both authors are themselves eminent researchers with extensive experience. Dr. Kuroda is best known for his publications employing tissue cultures. Dr. Ham has published nmnerous research papers on the health effects of green tea and its catechins. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the historical use of green tea in Japan and elsewhere, followed by a description of the many disease conditions against which these teas have preventive (protective) effects. Of particular interest to "senior citizens" is the chapter on the ability of tea components to ameliorate a wide range of age-related diseases including cancer, arteriosclerosis, and various forms of senile dementias. For scientists and others interested in infectious diseases caused by bacteria and viruses, a chapter dealing with the ability of tea components to inhibit these organisms will be of special interest.