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Collaborative approaches are becoming a key driver in drug discovery and development. They come in many types and forms ranging from project-based collaborations and strategic alliances to large international consortia. The volume discusses various types of such collaboration including the specific uses, advantages, and challenges. Based on the nature of public-private partnerships, we present views and experiences from academia, industry, and public stakeholders.

This book delves into diverse facets and applications of medicinal plants. It discusses the metabolic, transcriptomic, and genomic intricacies of medicinal plants, shedding light on their chemical compositions, genetic makeup, and regulatory mechanisms. It includes a chapter on nanotechnology, investigating the influence of nanoparticles on medicinal plants. Subsequent chapters explore functional genomics and genome editing, showcasing innovative approaches to modifying plant genetics. It also discusses plant-associated microorganisms in the microbiome and endophytic fungi. Furthermore, the book addresses the critical issues of genetic diversity, agrotechnology for sustainable production, intellectual property rights, and the impact of various stresses on medicinal plants. This book serves as a valuable resource for researchers, educators, and students of pharmacology, offering a comprehensive understanding of medicinal plants and their evolving role in science and medicine.

This textbook highlights the exciting field of nanoneuroscience and its potential to transform how we diagnose and treat neurological disorders.'The Textbook of Nanoneuroscience and Nanoneurosurgery,'dives deep into this emerging field, exploring the latest tools and techniques currently being developed at the nanoscale level. Key areas of focus include: Nanoplatforms: The book explores how scientists utilize materials on a near-microscopic scale for neurosurgery, neurology, and brain imaging applications. Bridging the Gap: Regulatory hurdles for translating research from the lab to real-world use are addressed, paving the way for future advancements. The Future is Now: The book showcases recent breakthroughs already impacting patient care alongside promising areas with significant potential. Collaboration is Key: Insights from over 220 researchers and 5000+ references, along with illustrative figures in B/W and color, provide a comprehensive overview of this dynamic field. With its focus on minimally invasive procedures and the latest regulatory considerations，'The Textbook of Nanoneuroscience and Nanoneurosurgery'equips researchers and medical professionals with the knowledge to develop groundbreaking treatments for neurological conditions. The text also reviews the latest regulatory guidelines that influence the translation of nanotechnological research from the laboratory to the clinic and the most recent information on biodevices and pharmaceutical spinoffs. It highlights presidential and congressional initiatives and programs that may impact the field soon. Some reviews of the First edition of the textbook.'…a significant contribution to the field of nanoneuroscience and nanoneurosurgery … the reader will come away with a deeper understanding of the history of nanotechnology and medicine.'—Neuroscience'This is a monumental first textbook on nanoneurosurgery. … recommended reading for neurosurgeons, neurologists, neuroradiologists, and neuroscientists involved in research on new techniques for application in neurosurgery. Biomedical engineers and various companies developing instruments and devices would benefit from the wealth of information about trends for the development of new technologies for neurosurgery.'K. K. Jain, MD, Basel, Switzerland'Phenomenal body of knowledge in this book that would take eons to collate by myself. Every answer to every one of my questions plus heaps more. Essential reading for everyone interested in the field. A must-have!'Albert Deme'This is an amazing foray into the future of a largely unexplored, but increasingly critical medical domain…..I have learned much from every page of this captivating text, and I highly recommend it to any medical student, researcher, medical professional in the neurosciences, or anyone who has an interest in the human brain and the future of medicine, to gather a glimpse of the incredible and beneficial paradigm shifts that will soon impact the field of neuroscience.'Frank Boehm, British Columbia, Canada

This volume focuses on target-oriented approximations to drug discovery, including target selection, binding pocket detection, and current uses and variants of molecular dynamics and molecular docking. The primary audience is PhD and graduates working in the field of molecular biology, structural biology, pharmaceutical sciences.

The book explores the field of pharmacovigilance, its historical context, along with its critical role in ensuring the safety of medications across the world. From its foundational principles to cutting-edge advancements and future challenges, this book provides a thorough understanding of the field's intricacies. The book begins by establishing the fundamentals of pharmacovigilance, emphasizing its significance in monitoring, detecting, assessing, and preventing adverse drug reactions (ADRs) that occur during the use of medications. Delving into the history of pharmacovigilance and regulatory actions, the book traces the evolution of the field, highlighting significant milestones and the establishment of regulatory frameworks that govern medication safety. It explores the pivotal role of regulatory authorities in developing guidelines, regulations, and policies to safeguard public health. A significant aspect covered in the book is the processing of ADRs, providing insights into the steps involved in handling and evaluating ADR reports. The book also addresses specialized areas within pharmacovigilance, including vaccine safety surveillance, herbovigilance (monitoring the safety of herbal medicines), materiovigilance (monitoring the safety of medical devices), and hemovigilance (ensuring the safety of blood products). Additionally, the book explores the role of pharmacogenetics in pharmacovigilance, highlighting how genetic factors influence individual responses to medications and how this knowledge can be integrated into safety monitoring and risk assessment. This book also covers databases used in pharmacovigilance across the globe, aggregate reporting and pharmacovigilance systems in EU and non-EU countries, and the role of artificial intelligence.Finally, it emphasizes the need for continuous improvement, vigilance, and proactive measures to adapt to the changing healthcare landscape and address emerging safety concerns. The book serves as acomprehensive guide for healthcare professionals, researchers, regulators, and policymakers involved in pharmacovigilance.

A timely and first-of-its-kind publication in the field, this short handbook on decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) offers a thorough exploration of the potential of DCTs to revolutionize clinical research through innovative approaches, including technology. This concise and easy-to-read publication is especially designed for those who seek to understand and get up-to-speed on what DCTs mean and how to work in this rapidly evolving field. As discussed in Chapter 1, DCTs address barriers to traditional trial participation, promoting accessibility, diversity, equity, and participant engagement. Chapter 2 examines how the COVID-19 pandemic and evolving regulations accelerated the adoption of DCTs, building on their application since the early 2000s. Chapters 3 and 4 highlight remaining operational complexities and the importance of careful trial design to ensure scientific rigor, operational feasibility, and compliance with regulations, ethics, data privacy, and participant safety. The book emphasizes the significance of the FDA's draft guidance on DCTs, detailing investigator responsibilities, local health care providers'use, and essential sponsor considerations. Chapter 5 stresses the need for clear metrics to evaluate DCT adoption's impact on recruitment, retention, diversity, safety, and cost efficiencies. Overall, this guide tracks DCT advancements and encourages readers to contribute to evidence-based integration, meeting participant expectations for convenience and fostering faster, more inclusive clinical studies. Ultimately, this book aims to support the transformation of modern clinical research, developing medical products more efficiently for those in need. A major contribution to the literature on clinical research, this work will be a resourceful tool to anyone interested in embracing decentralized clinical research and improving access and participation for all.

This book delves into the various aspects of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) and its role in cardiovascular disorders. It explores the use of anti-hypertensive agents, with a focus on (ACE) angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). The chapters cover topics such as the preferred use of ACE inhibitors over ARBs in high-risk patients, the impact of these agents on insulin resistance, their role in acute heart failure and peripheral artery disease, and their immunomodulatory activity in hypertensive patients. Additionally, the book examines the role of ACE inhibitors and ARBs in COVID-19 patients and provides insights into recent trends in managing hypertension through RAAS inhibition. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and healthcare professionals involved in the field of cardiovascular medicine.

The book delves into the development and therapeutic potential of Sodium-glucose Cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors for the treatment of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. It explores their mechanism of action, cardiovascular benefits, and role in primary and secondary protection from renal and cardiovascular diseases. The book also highlights their emerging opportunities in the management of myocardial infarction, diabetic cardiomyopathy, and congestive heart failure. It provides a comprehensive review of preclinical and clinical information on the cardiovascular advantages of SGLT2 inhibitors. Additionally, the book explores selective drugs and their effects on cardiovascular events, mortality, and safety outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes. The book is a valuable resource for researchers, healthcare professionals, and individuals interested in the field of SGLT2 inhibitors and their impact on diabetes and cardiovascular health.

The book explores the world of medicinal plants through a groundbreaking and comprehensive book. It delves into high-throughput technologies and multi-omics approaches to unlock the untapped potential of endophytic fungi, revealing novel bioactive compounds. It further talks about the diverse biodiversity and ethnopharmacological knowledge, unravelling the molecular intricacies of secondary metabolites under varying ecological conditions. This gives insights into medicinal plant research, offering cutting-edge insights into genome-based barcoding, nanotechnology, and functional genomics for revolutionary drug discoveries. From proteomic and epigenomic analysis to big data exploration, this book presents a holistic view of medicinal plants'potential and discusses the latest advancements in micropropagation, agronomical approaches, and genome editing, paving the way for transformative medicines and healthcare breakthroughs.It serves as a great resource for academicians, researchers, and pharmacologists.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of plants and plant-derived phytochemicals in the management of cardiovascular diseases. It presents the cardioprotective potential of plants and phytochemicals, covering various preclinical models, assays, and clinical research protocols of plant medicine for cardioprotection. Chapters cover the role of plants and phytochemicals in prevention and cure of atherosclerosis, hypertension, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, myocardial ischemia, cardiotoxicity and the underlying pharmacological, molecular, biochemical, and immunobiological mechanisms. The book also includes toxicological aspects (safety evaluations), meta-analysis of clinical trials, critical assessments, drawbacks and challenges for adopting phytomedical approaches in evidence-based medicine for the treatment of CVDs. Screening methods and plant foods for cardioprotection are also covered. The book will be a reference for all researchers working on the role of plant-based products on cardiovascular systems and on cardioprotective agents of plant origin. It will be useful for students, researchers, physicians, nurses, industrial scientists, nutritionists, pharmacists, pharmacologists, toxicologists, botanists, and traditional medicine practitioners. In particular, researchers working on heart problems, diseases, toxicity, physicians treating patients with heart problems, hospitals, pharmacy institutions, pharmacy students and researchers, ethnobotanists, and people working in traditional medicine will find this book useful.

This book comprehensively covers critically investigated information on medicinal plants prioritized for their anti-allergy properties. It offers insights into strategies related to the distribution, mechanism of action, and assessment of antiallergic medicinal plants, and also delves into crucial aspects of modern biotechnological tools, addressing their implementation challenges, presenting innovative approaches through case studies, and exploring opportunities for nanotechnologies. These elaborated discussions aim to raise awareness and bridge the gap between human health and the biodiversity of antiallergic medicinal plants. As the book navigates the uncertainties of plant-based medicines in the post-COVID-19 era, it provides real-world applications showcasing the specific utility of medicinal plants through advanced biotechnological insights. This book covers several medicinal plants associated with antiallergy, exploring their modes of action, available secondary metabolites,and estimation methods. It also emphasizes all modern biotechnological interventions aimed at propagating, multiplying, and conserving this unique treasure trove of medicinal plants. The World Health Organization estimated that 80% of the populations of developing countries rely on traditional medicines, mostly plant drugs, for their primary health care needs. Increasing demand in both developing and developed countries resulted in the expanding trade of medicinal plants and has serious implications for the survival of several plant species, with many under threat of becoming extinct. This book describes various approaches to conserving these genetic resources. It discusses the whole spectrum of biotechnological tools from micro-propagation for large-scale multiplication and cell-culture techniques to the biosynthesis and enhancement of pharmaceutical compounds in plants. It also discusses the genetic transformation as well as short- to long-term conservation of plant genetic resources via synthetic seed production and cryopreservation, respectively. This reference book is useful for researchers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnological industries, medicinal chemists, biochemists, botanists, molecular biologists, academicians, students as well as allergic patients, traditional medicine practitioners, scientists in medicinal and aromatic plants, and other traditional medical practitioners.

The Peritoneal cavity (PC) is the key metastatic site for intra-abdominal malignancies (e.g., GI tract and rectal cancer). PC sites can be used to target several other diseases where lymphatic drug delivery is desired without dumping large amounts of the drug. Till recently, it was thought that treatment with curative intent was impossible but that was challenged by the introduction of cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), and PIPAC (pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy). Recently, a growing number of preclinical and clinical studies advocate intraperitoneal (IP) chemotherapy as an alternative post-operative therapy for cancer. Although their effectiveness has been proven both experimentally and clinically, there is still little understanding of the role of drug delivery systems (DDS) in targeting drugs in the intraperitoneal (IP) cavity.There are two main challenges one posed by IP cavity where the residence time of a small molecular weight drug (<20 kDa) is not sufficiently long to maintain therapeutic effect. This leads to frequent or continuous dosing. Another challenge is device-related or catheter-related problems, such as catheter obstruction, increased risk of infection, and bowel complications. Overall literature shows that the IP site is satisfactorily explored by clinicians but in terms of drug delivery not that much. One can see a clear-cut gap of expertise exchange between the two fields and guidelines from regulatory lawmakers on new medications.In summary, challenges like delivery to IP cavity, tumor or organ-specific targeting, efficient tissue penetration, optimal cellular uptake and intracellular residence of a drug, biocompatibility, toxicity, etc can be easily solved by smartly designing functional drug delivery systems (both nano and micro). Nanotechnologies have always fascinated humans for several decades and are now widely explored in the biomedical field. Diverse types of nanoparticles are being explored around the world, some examples include biodegradable nanoparticles, green nanoparticles, polymeric nanoparticles, lipid nanoparticles, metal nanoparticles, graphene, carbon nanotubes, and several others. Now a day's nanoparticles are gaining interest for drug targeting of chemotherapeutic drugs, immunotherapy, and gene delivery. Whereas microparticles can be explored for delayed drug delivery to the peritoneal cavity due to relatively slow removal from IP fluid. Hydrogels or other adhesive drug delivery may help to enhance peritoneal adhesions; thereby maintaining the balance between benefit and risk. Overall, drug delivery systems are key in IP targeting. That means drug delivery specialist and clinician needs to be connected to get the best out of this route of drug administration.The present book is a link between pharmaceutical scientists (drug formulators), clinicians, toxicologists, and regulatory experts. This book also provides a new perspective to researchers to divert or guide their research in an optimal way. Exploring Drug Delivery to the Peritoneum serves as a platform for upcoming technologies especially in the medical devices sector to face up and show potential in delivering drugs. It is a chance for commercial partners like insurance companies and the pharma industry to explore this direction.

This book provides an overview of Data Monitoring Committees(DMC) - what was done in the past, what is currently being done, and thoughts on improvements for the future. Previous works focused primarily on large cardiovascular studies (where DMCs originated more than 30 years ago) but updated references are needed that discuss smaller, more flexible studies in areas such as oncology. The authors have attended ~800 DMC meetings from ~200 distinct studies across all areas of clinical studies (oncology, rheumatology, rare diseases, cardiology, immunology, etc.) This wide range of expertise will be used, as well as the expertise that comes from working with virtually every large biotechnology and pharmaceutical company and CRO for DMC work. The reader of the book will know when DMCs are needed or helpful, how to form the DMC, how to work with external CROs and with sponsor teams and the DMC to create needed DMC outputs, how the DMC meetings are conducted, and - especially for DMC members - what are considerations within the Closed Session to review safety/efficacy outputs to assess risk/benefit to make appropriate recommendations that protect the patient safety and trial integrity. This is a practical hands-on book on how to decide if a DMC is necessary, how to form the DMC, how to expertly create the necessary materials for the DMC and have smooth running DMC meetings. There is no specialized training in school about how DMCs work - frequently people may have been in industry for many years without ever needing to work with a DMC. This book is the helpful reference for those new to these DMCs. The DMC work is critical to be correctly implemented as the impact of DMC activity on safeguarding the trial is so important.This book provides the following: Provides thorough instructions on the steps needed to form and implement a Data Monitoring Committee for clinical trial evaluation;Includes practical and hands-on information on DMC implementation;Discusses a wide range of clinical trial – by phase and therapeutic area.

This book examines the role of human microbiome in human health and diseases. The initial chapters present tools for genetic manipulation of gut microbiota and the therapeutic applications of engineered microbiota. They discuss the interaction between human microbiota and host in defining the prominent role of microbes in the development and progression of major human diseases. The book also summarizes the current applications and trends for the development, production and analytical characterization of recombinant therapeutic proteins in microbial systems. It also reviews the role of microbes in the production of vaccines and antibiotics. Further, the book presents bacterial products, including proteins, enzymes, immunotoxins and secondary metabolites, that target cancer cells and cause tumour regression. The chapters also discuss the critical role of gut microbiota dysbiosis in the pathogenesis of autoimmune disease and in bowel-related diseases. Towards the end, the book exploresthe role of intestinal microbiota in metabolic health and the pathogenesis of common metabolic disorders. It presents state-of-the-art insights into important aspects of United Nations—Sustainable Developmental Goal 3.

This completely updated and expanded 2nd Edition provides all the information needed in order to understand the complex molecular, cellular and genetic mechanisms that underlie normal and abnormal cardiac rhythms. Its goal is to help physiologists and clinicians alike develop better preventive and treatment strategies. The respective chapters cover a broad range of topics, including the role of specific ion channels and transporters, gap junctions, intracellular Ca2+ handling in pacemaker activity, impulse conduction, and the activity of atrial and ventricular myocardium. Special emphasis is placed on the unique electrophysiology of specialized pacemaking cells and conducting fibers. In turn, several types of inherited and acquired ventricular arrhythmias are presented in detail. Clinicians will especially appreciate the updated information on even common disorders like atrial fibrillation and their impacts on human physiology. In closing, the book goes “one step further” and considers future prospects, e.g. novel antiarrhythmic agents and new concepts like optogenetics, in the context of heart rate regulation. Accordingly, it offers readers a solid reference guide to everything they need to know about human heart rate and rhythm.

The biotechnology/biopharmaceutical sector has tremendously grown which led to the invention of engineered antibodies such as Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs), Bispecific T cell engager ( BITES), Dual Variable Domain ( DVD), Chimeric Antigen Receptor - Modified Tcells (CART) that are currently being used as therapeutic agents for immunology and oncology disease conditions. In addition to other pharmaceuticals and biopharmaceuticals, all these novel formats are fragile with respect to their stability/structure under processing conditions meaning marginal stability in the liquid state and often require lyophilization to enhance their stability and shelf-life. This book contains chapters/topics that will describe every aspect of the lyophilization process and product development and manufacturing starting from the overview of lyophilization process, equipment required, characterization of the material, design and development of the formulation and lyophilization process, various techniques for characterization of the product, scale-up/tech-transfer and validation. It also describes the application of CFD coupled with mathematical modeling in the lyophilization process and product development, scale-up, and manufacturing. Additionally, Principles and Practice of Lyophilization Process and Product Development contains an entire dedicated section on “Preservation of Biologicals” comprised of nine chapters written by experts and including case studies.

This handbook focuses specifically on biomarkers in diabetes and provides a comprehensive understanding of this field. Readers will gain deep insights into bioinformatics and network analysis of biomarkers in diabetes, and will learn about circulating biomarkers in body fluids and specific pathological features of diabetes. Various animal models in diabetes research are also presented.In addition, like the previous volumes in this large reference series, the book provides a comprehensive look at genetics, cellular, and histological variables. The goal of this handbook is to provide information on markers of this disease to facilitate diagnosis, introduce new technologies, and ultimately improve health.It is a must for researchers as well as advanced students and physicians in the field of diabetes and biomarker research and application.

This book provides updated information on marine-based biomedical carriers and their therapeutic potential. Marine biomaterials and bio-based carriers show wide application in pharmaceutical and biomedical fields to deliver small and large molecules. Biomaterial-based composites, scaffolds, or matrix systems are sound systems for controlled and prolonged drug release in target sites and control the premature release of drugs or bioactive compounds. This book discusses essential topics such as the therapeutic potential of marine collagen, management of bone disorders, gene delivery, natural marine compounds in immunomodulation, theranostic applications, tissue engineering, and regeneration. It also describes the use of marine biopolymers in cancer therapy. Different chapters describe the tissue engineering techniques to develop these carriers. Marine biomaterial-based systems are popular for tissue engineering and biomedical imaging.This book is ideal for industry experts, students, and researchers in pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacology.

This book is focused on marine based biomedical carriers for delivery of therapeutics. Marine biomaterials and bio-based carriers show wide applications in pharmaceutical as well as biomedical fields for delivery of small and large molecules. Biomaterial-based composites, scaffolds or matrix systems are promising systems for controlled and prolonged release of drug in target site and control the premature release of drugs or bioactive compounds. This book discusses the targeted delivery of drugs and therapeutic applications. It also describes the use of marine biopolymers in cancer therapy. Different chapters describe the tissue engineering techniques to develop these carriers. The marine biomaterial-based systems are widely used for tissue engineering, and biomedical imaging. This book is meant for industry experts, students and researchers in the area of pharmaceutical sciences, biomedical engineering and material science and pharmacology.

This fully updated third edition of the encyclopedia covers all aspects of pharmacology, from the chemistry of drugs and the biochemistry of drug targets to the clinical application of drugs, with emphasis on molecular mechanisms. It also includes techniques for describing the effects of drugs and characterizing drug targets. With over 2,000 entries and 350 detailed essays by leading experts, this book is also an up-to-date and important reference for scientists in fields outside pharmacology, students, health care workers, teachers, physicians, and laypersons. Available both in print and as a fully searchable and hyperlinked electronic online edition.

Clinical and preclinical exploration of gene and cellular immunotherapy have seen rapid growth and interest with the development and approval of five Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR-T) products for lymphoma and myeloma and one Bispecific T-Cell Engager (BiTE) for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). These advances have dramatically improved the management of patients with relapsed refractory lymphoma, myeloma and leukemia. Gene and Cellular Immunotherapy for Cancer offers readers a comprehensive review of current cellular and gene-based immunotherapies. Divided into eighteen cohesive chapters, this book provides an in-depth and detailed look into cellular-based immunotherapies including CAR-T, TCR-T, TIL, Viral CTLs, NK cells in addition to T/NK cell engagers, focusing on their historical perspectives, biology, development and manufacturing, toxicities and more. Edited by two leading experts on gene and cellular immunotherapy, the book will feature chapters written by a diverse collection of recognized and up-and-coming experts and researchers in the field, providing oncologists, immunologists, researchers and clinical and basic science trainees with a bench to bedside view of the latest developments in the field.

This book focuses on both high-density lipoproteins (HDL) metabolism and related diseases from the perspectives of the world-class experts in HDL. Several chapters in this book provide the overall information about HDL metabolism via detailed discussion of HDL structures as well as several key molecules involved in its functions, such as SR-B1 and Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein Inhibitors and so on. The rest of this book illustrates the connection between HDL and several diseases that are the major concerns of people's health in many countries, and devotes to exploring the therapies of HDL related diseases. With a better understanding of the HDL metabolism and diseases, this book will benefit the audiences with interest in HDL from biomedicine to clinical practice.

This third and final volume in the'Ion Transport in Tumor Biology'collection presents novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in cancer based on the exploitation of ion transport proteins. The authors critically examine several transportome members, particularly Na+, K+, Ca2+, and Cl- channels, as well as organic solute carriers regarding their suitability as therapeutic targets. Synergistic effects resulting from the combined use of classical cytostatics with ion transport-inhibiting drugs are pointed out, and the capability of bispecific antibodies to function as anticancer drugs is discussed. As readers will also learn, the use of ion channel inhibitors could improve the outcome of radiotherapy because the development of radio-resistance during radiotherapeutic treatment often correlates with increases in the expression levels and conductance of ion channels. The translational topics of this volume form a bridge between biochemical research and therapeutic application. As part of a three-volume collection, this book will fascinate members of the active research community, as well as clinicians in the cancer field.

This is the first of three volumes in the'Ion Channels & Transporters in Tumor Biology'collection, which discusses the function of ion transport proteins in cellular and systemic homeostasis. The authors highlight the role of the so-called transportome, which is defined by the entirety of ion transporters and ion channels. Thereby, readers will get a better understanding of the impact dysregulated ion transport has on the whole spectrum of cancer types. Cancers display deficiencies in several, sometimes interdependent members of the transportome.Clinicians will be interested in the fact that controlled expression of ion transport proteins dramatically impacts the life span of cancer patients, as shown in recent studies. These observations offer a promising outlook for biomedical scientists, as members of the transportome could be the tumor markers of tomorrow - both for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.As part of a three-volume collection, this book will fascinate members of the active research community, as well as clinicians from the cancer field.

This book discusses different approaches for successful pest-management through biotechnological interventions. Pest management is directly associated with the agricultural productivity. The book introduces the reader to various kinds of biopesticides that have been developed and are being developed for field application. Chemical pesticides have been widely used to control pests, and these induce pesticide resistance as well as other environmental problems. This book discusses the necessity to develop alternate pest control strategies, especially environment-friendly and target-specific biopesticides against destructive pests. The book describes important aspects such as microbial biopesticides, plant-based biopesticides, natural products that act against pests and the various other biotechnological advances and limitations of these biopesticides. It provides an in-depth knowledge of the latest research and development in the area of biopesticides. This informative book is meant for students and researchers in the fields of biotechnology, agriculture and applied microbiology.

This book offers a systematic review of the cutting-edge knowledge in stress medicine. Cellular redox imbalance, resulting from overproduction of reactive oxide species (ROS), leads to oxidative stress and subsequent occurrence and development of many diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, pain, etc. In addition, ROS can induce post-translational modification of proteins and play roles through redox signaling pathways. In this book, the authors attempt to re-define the key concepts in oxidative stress, such as oxidative eustress and oxidative distress, revisit the pivotal signaling of oxidative stress in human diseases, and discuss the debate in current anti-oxidant strategies, such as natural products and drug repurposing. This book serves as a reference to graduate students and researchers in this growing field.

Endemic fluorosis is caused by excessive intake of fluorine in drinking water, air, food, tea and other media in a specific natural environment for a long time, which involves at least 25 countries, such as China, India, Vietnam, Iran, Egypt, Mexico, Argentina and influences more than 200 million of population. China and India are the countries with the most extensive endemic fluorosis and the most serious damages. There are three main intake sources of endemic fluorosis, e.g., drinking water, coal-burning pollution and drinking tea. Coal-burning type of endemic fluorosis was established in Guizhou Province of China in 1970's. The residents in the areas used indoor stoves with no flue to burn coals with high content of fluoride to bake grains in the autumn and heat in the winter. This results in excessive intake of fluorine and then leads chronic poisoning. It has been confirmed that 13 provinces of China with 34.3 million of population are influenced by this type of fluorosis withsevere injuries to most organs of human body. The content of this book covers the epidemiology, pathological changes, molecular pathogenesis and clinical treatments of the disease. This book is a suitable reference for the researchers and graduate students in this field, which is helpful to improve the understanding of this disease and to take preventive measures.

This volume elaborates on the research and clinical implications of the hereditary and molecular basis of childhood cancers. The focus of the ‘disease-related'chapters of the book is to integrate what is known about the molecular basis of that particular clinical entity (or group of related entities) with the clinical manifestations, to relate the relationship of the molecular oncologic pathways with relevant developmental or non-human species biology in order to better understand the complexity of these systems. The resulting clinical implications of understanding this biology are elaborated on. Chapters 13-16 discuss the broader psychosocial, ethical and genetic counseling issues that arise and that are so critical to translating the knowledge gained from advances in molecular genetics into the clinic. Chapter 12 in particular provides a unique perspective of the application of this knowledge in less-developed nations where ‘modern'technologies may not be readily available, butwhere the clinical manifestations of these disorders are prevalent.

This book provides detailed and updated knowledge about medically important ‘Big Four'venomous snakes of India (Indian spectacled cobra, Indian common krait, Indian Russell's viper, and Indian saw-scaled viper). This book essentially covers the snakebite problem in the world with particular reference to Asia and India. It discusses the evolution and systematics of venomous snakes, emphasizing ‘Big Four'venomous snakes of India; the evolution and composition of venoms determined by traditional biochemical and modern proteomic analyses. It also describes the pharmacological properties of enzymatic and non-enzymatic toxins of ‘Big Four'venomous snakes of India. Different chapters discuss exciting topics such as species-specific and geographical differences in venom composition and its impact on pathophysiology and clinical manifestations of snakebite envenomation in India, biomedical application of Indian snake venom toxins; production and quality assessment of commercial antivenom,prevention, and treatment of snakebite in India, adverse effects of antivenom including strategies to combat antivenom reactions inpatient.This book caters to toxinologists, pharmacologists, zoologists, antivenom manufacturers, biochemists, clinicians, evolutionary biologists, herpetologists, and informed non-specialists interested to know about the Indian snake venoms.

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has emerged as an important gas signalling molecule in a series of organs/tissues, on the diseases of which it plays protective roles, such as proangiogenic effects in ischemic tissues, antiapoptotic effects in the cardiomyocytes, regularization of fatal arrhythmia in myocardial infarction, amelioration of inflammation in autoimmune diseases, modification of neuronal transmission, increase in sodium excretion from the kidney, and amelioration of insulin resistance, etc. This book focuses on the effect of hydrogen sulfide in cardiovascular system, immune system, nervous system, kidney, as well as on the metabolism of glucose and lipids and regulation of ion channels and so on. This book also provides the advances in the understanding of endogenous H2S metabolism and H2S protein targets, as well as H2S donors. It will benefit researchers in both academics and industry working on the underlying mechanism of H2S field and the future of translational medicine of H2S.

This contributed volume applies the insights of supramolecular chemistry to biomedical applications such as ions/water transport through nano-scale channels, gene therapy, tissue engineering and drug delivery, to cite some of the major investigations.The challenge is to understand the mechanisms of transport through tissues particularly in the therapeutic treatment of a disease where the active drug must be delivered directly to diseased cells without affecting healthy cells. As a result, smaller quantities of active substances can be used to treat the disease. Another interest concerns new ways to administer gene therapy. If genes are often delivered to their target cells by adapted viruses, the supramolecular non-viral ‘vectors'using dynamic nano-frameworks and nano-structures are presented. In addition, it is important to reconstruct damaged tissues by mimicking natural processes in cells and polymers, such as tissue engineering and self-healing. Differentoptions are here discussed: e.g. hydrogels based on chitosan, a carbohydrate polymer, are proving especially promising for tissue engineering and drug delivery. For controlled delivery of drugs or other biologically active compounds, hydrogels sensitive to the most important stimuli in the human body, such as temperature, pH, ionic strength, glucose and biomolecules released by the organism in pathological conditions have been developed. Finally, to assist and validate the experimental studies, computer modelling and simulations of large-sized molecular structures and systems using different molecular dynamics and quantum mechanical techniques are developed based on the experimental and chemistry synthesis.This book is of great interest for graduate students, researchers and health professionals interested in acquiring a better understanding of the mechanisms of medical treatments. In addition, it provides numerous tools to develop better therapies for human diseases.

This book presents the latest data from basic research and clinical trials supporting the effectiveness of ketamine as a treatment for depression, bipolar disorder, and suicidal behavior, setting these positive findings within the context of the serious problem of ketamine abuse. The first part of the book focuses on the evidence regarding ketamine abuse, with specific reference to Asian countries, and discusses countermeasures and complication management. It then addresses the mechanisms underlying the antidepressant and side effects of ketamine, which have remained elusive, describing and discussing important new research findings. Further, it explains insights gained from whole brain imaging in rodents and from behavioral pharmacology, and presents evidence regarding the role of gut microbiota, the NMDA receptor GluN2D subunit, and the lateral habenula in the actions of ketamine. These advances form the basis for the safer use of ketamine in patients with treatment-resistant depression and are expected to lead to the development of new antidepressants.

Lipids are responsible not just for constituting cellular membrane but also for storing energy, transducing signaling, and modifying proteins. Bioactive lipids, or lipid mediators, transduce signaling as intracellular messenger like phosphoinoitides, and also regulate cell-cell communication through G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) that are potentially valuable drug targets in many diseases. Until now, about 40 GPCRs within ~300 rhodopsin-like (class A) GPCRs, are identified as lipid GPCRs. Advances of lipid research have enabled to develop novel small molecules targeting lipid GPCRs for several diseases. Most notably, fingolimod (FTY720), a sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) receptor modulator, became the first FDA-approved medicine as an orally bioavailable drug for treating relapsing forms of multiple sclerosis (MS). In addition to fingolimod, other drugs targeting lipid GPCRs had been developed such as latanoprost (prostaglandin F2a analogue, used for ocular hypertension and glaucoma), epoprostenol and treprostinil (prostaglandin I2 analogue, used for pulmonary arterial hypertension), montelukast and pranlukast (cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonist, used for asthma and allergies), etc. Novel drugs are also expected like lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor antagonist for treatment of pulmonary fibrosis. Drug development targeting lipid signalling pathways are backdated to more than a century, when aspirin was synthesized and selling by Bayer, while the basic mechanism of aspirin's effects (block prostanoid synthesis by inhibiting cyclooxygenases) had not been discovered until 1970s. Nowadays, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin and ibuprophen are commonly used as antipyretic analgesics and available readily over-the-counter oral drugs. Both upstream and downstream enzymes, such as phospholipase A2s and prostaglandin E synthases, respectively, are also potential therapeutic targets for inflammatory diseases. Recent studies of lipid metabolism expand the lipid biology field from pro-inflammatory lipid mediators to anti-inflammatory epoxy fatty acids (epoxyeicosatrienoic acids), and also omega-3 fatty acid-derived pro-resolving lipid mediators (lipoxin, resolvin, and neuroprotectin). These bioactive lipids, their metabolic pathways and receptors are of great interest in developing next-generation anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving drugs for a wide variety of diseases including. This book summarizes not only historical overview of lipid signaling pathways but also provides summary of cutting-edge studies that may provide some hints of novel “druggable” lipid signaling targets.

The book provides easy-to-understand diverse specialized topics in toxicology using self- study questions and answers. The answers are in the form of text along with custom made diagrams and explanations that help the student audience to understand and grasp the matter easily. It is written specifically as a study guide for the toxicology board and other examinations.

Im vorliegenden Band werden nicht-hereditäre Tumorerkrankungen behandelt, deren Häufigkeit zwischen 85% und 95% liegt und damit ungleich höher ist als die der hereditären Tumorerkrankungen. Auch den nicht-hereditären Tumoren liegen Mutationen von DNS-Basenpaaren zugrunde, jedoch ohne Veränderungen der Keimbahn. Der pleiotrope Charakter dieser Erkrankungen erfordert zur Erkennung ihrer Ursachen eine komplizierte Diagnostik. Besonders betroffen sind Organe, die einer Einwirkung von Schadstoffen in besonderem Maße ausgesetzt sind. Diese Belastungen spiegeln sich in den insgesamt 13 Kapiteln dieses Bandes wider. Sie reichen von Hirn-, Brust- und Lungentumoren, über Tumoren der Leber, des Ösophagus und Magens, des Pankreas, des Darmes, der Blase und Niere, der Prostata und der Keimdrüsen bis zu Tumoren der Knochen und Weichteile.

This book presents a state-of-the-art report on recent advances concerning Ganoderma and where the field is going. Although some older work is also cited, the main focus is on advances made over the past 20 years in the pharmacology and clinical applications of Ganoderma.Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi) has been used as a traditional medicine in Asian countries to maintain health and to treat diseases for more than two thousand years. Recently, its value has been demonstrated in preventing and treating certain diseases, such as tumors, liver disorders, renal injury, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, cerebral ischemia reperfusion, bronchitis etc. In addition, laboratory and clinical studies have confirmed that the chemical components of Ganoderma, such as Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide peptides and triterpenes isolated from the fruiting body of Ganoderma lucidum, produce diverse pharmacological effects. Ganoderma and its components play an important part in antioxidant stress, radical-scavenging, immunomodulation, and intracellular signaling regulation, and accordingly warrant further study. This book systematically reviews the latest advances in our understanding of pharmacology and clinical applications of Ganoderma, and offers researchers and graduate students valuable new insights into the pharmacology and clinical applications of Ganoderma and related products.

This book presents a state-of-the-art report on recent advances concerning Ganoderma and where the field is going. Although some older work is also cited, the main focus is on advances made over the past 20 years in the research history, classification, chemical components and industry of Ganoderma. Ganoderma lucidum (Lingzhi) has been used as a traditional medicine in Asian countries to maintain health and to treat diseases for more than two thousand years. Recently, its value has been demonstrated in preventing and treating certain diseases, such as tumors, liver disorders, renal injury, hypercholesterolemia, obesity, cerebral ischemia reperfusion, bronchitis etc. In addition, laboratory and clinical studies have confirmed that the chemical components of Ganoderma, such as Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide peptides and triterpenes isolated from the fruiting body of Ganoderma lucidum, produce diverse pharmacological effects. Ganoderma and its components play an important partin antioxidant stress, radical-scavenging, immunomodulation, and intracellular signaling regulation, and accordingly warrant further study. This book systematically reviews the latest advances in our understanding of Ganoderma's basic knowledge, history of modern research, species, cultivation, components, spore polysaccharide and industry of Ganoderma, and offers researchers and graduate students valuable new insights into the development and clinical applications of Ganoderma and related products.

This exhaustive work shows that new therapies using anti-angiogenic drugs are of particular importance because they can be used against many different types of cancer, as tumor angiogenesis seems to be involved in most if not all solid metastasizing malignancies. The first part of this book summarizes the knowledge acquired on the molecular entities that play a role in tumor angiogenesis and their mechanisms of action. Furthermore, the identification of molecular markers and their validation as predictive and/or prognostic tools is reviewed. In the second and most important part, the clinical applications of anti-angiogenic treatments are documented for a wide variety of tumors. In particular, the modes of combination with other targeted and/or cytotoxic cancer therapies are presented.​

This textbook provides a structured, easy to understand and thorough insight into the mode of function of plant secondary metabolites in plants and humans. It explains the biosynthesis and molecular action of nicotine, cannabis, caffeine and Co, describes the effects of these drugs on signal transduction at receptors and ion channels in animals, their relevance for human health and their potential for recreational use and abuse. It also offers a broad and comprehensive understanding on the role and function of these diverse molecules for the plants that make them. This textbook is written for master students and scientist in biochemistry and biology as well as for pharmaceutical and medical students. It will be a valuable study tool for teachers and students alike.

This textbook provides an easy-to-understand introduction to the complex topic of vaccine research and development. It gives a comprehensive though clearly arranged insight to the most important aspects of molecular vaccinology, leading from the basics in immunology, to design of vaccines and mode of action of vaccines to the actual formulation, manufacturing and registration of vaccines. The volume is therefore a valuable text about modern vaccinology for graduate students and a basic introduction for newcomers in vaccine design and development.

With contributions by numerous experts

In der Mortalitätsstatistik sind Krebserkrankungen nach den Herz-Kreislauferkrankungen am häufigsten. In der Behandlung von Tumorerkrankungen zeichnet sich neben klassischen chirurgischen, strahlen- und chemotherapeutischen Methoden durch die Anwendung molekularbiologischer Methoden ein grundlegender Wandel ab. Im vorliegenden Band werden an ausgewählten Beispielen neue molekulare und genetische Erkenntnisse über therapeutische, diagnostische und präventive Aspekte zur Behandlung von Krebserkrankungen und Möglichkeiten für eine klinische Anwendung der Gentherapie dargestellt. Gleichzeitig wird deutlich gemacht, welche Probleme bei der Übertragung von Ergebnissen der Grundlagenforschung in verantwortungsvolles therapeutisches Handeln noch zu bewältigen sind.

Biological inorganic chemistry is a field of research at the interface of inorganic and biological chemistry. The rapidly developing insights into the role of metals in biological systems has far-reaching implications not only for biological science but also for related disciplines, ranging from molecular medicine to the environment. In each volume the reader, whether engaged in chemistry, biochemistry, biology or molecular medicine, receives a comprehensive summary and critical overview of a topic of high current interest written by leading international experts.

Clostridium difficile has been recognized as the cause of a broad spectrum of enteric disease ranging from mild antibiotic-associated diarrhea to pseudomembranous colitis. This volume gives new insights into the microbiology, diagnostics and epidemiology of Clostridium difficile and describes recent strategies in treatment of diseases caused by this agent. Main parts of the volume are devoted to Clostridium difficile toxins A and B which are the major virulence factors. The molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmacology and cell biology of these toxins which are the prototypes of a new family of large clostridial cytotoxins is described in great detail. Clostridium difficile toxins act as glucosyltransferases to inactivate small GTP-binding proteins of the Rho family which are involved in regulation of the actin cytoskeleton, cell adhesion and various signaling processes.

This book provides a readable introduction to modern toxicology with a particular focus on the mechanisms underlying the induction of toxicity by foreign substances. Since bioactivation is central to many toxic syndromes, special interest is devoted to chemicals that undergo conversion to toxic metabolites that induce toxic effects as diverse as cancer, birth defects and organ injury. The molecular consequences accompanying damage to cellular DNA and proteins is explored together with the relevance of toxicological paradigms to human diseases caused by alcohol and tobacco. The discipline of toxicology has developed rapidly since the thalidomide disaster in the 1960's as scientists worldwide seek to understand the adverse health effects of human medicines, environmental pollutants, consumer chemicals and industrial reagents. An Introduction to Toxicology is intended to supplement the recommended reading list of undergraduate and graduate programs in toxicology and pharmacology as an enjoyable, accessible primer with illustrations that “unpack” the concepts being discussed in the text. ​

This monograph explores the relationships between cell signaling and the cytoplasmic cytoskeleton in fundamental cell processes, thus bridging the gap between two very active aspects of molecular cell biology. It covers the two main - and reciprocal - questions of these relationships: How are structure and function of the cytoskeleton affected by external signals which impinge on the cell? How does the cytoskeleton influence the cellular signaling processes which determine cell behavior?

Das Buch umfaßt die ganze Bandbreite der neurobiologischen Ansätze bei verschiedenen psychiatrischen Erkrankungen, sowohl hinsichtlich der Ätiopathogenese als auch der Therapie. In Form von Übersichtsarbeiten und Originalpublikationen von Ergebnissen einzelner Studien wird ein sehr aktuelles und sehr weit gefächertes Spektrum der biologisch-psychiatrischen Forschung geliefert. Neben einer Vielzahl anderer Themen stehen dabei dementielle Erkrankungen, angesichts der medizinischen und gesundheitspolitischen Bedeutung und der derzeitigen Intensität von Forschungsaktivitäten, ganz besonders im Mittelpunkt.

Der Erkenntnisfortschritt der Molekularbiologie und der molekularen Genetik hat zu einem tiefgreifenden Wandel diagnostischer und therapeutischer Möglichkeiten in der Medizin geführt und damit die theoretischen und methodischen Grundlagen für eine Molekulare Medizin gelegt. Diagnostische Möglichkeiten werden durch die Bestimmbarkeit genetischer Veränderungen beachtlich erweitert, neue Zielstrukturen für therapeutische Interventionen zugänglich. In monographischen Abhandlungen werden in diesem ersten Band die allgemeinen Grundlagen der Molekularen Medizin unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der molekular- und zellbiologischen Aspekte dargestellt, die einen, bei heutigem Kenntnisstand kausalen Zusammenhang mit pathologischen Veränderungen d.h. therapiefähigen Erkrankungen besitzen.