| Iron is of fundamental importance to the growth, development and well-being of almost all living organisms. Multiple biological systems have evolved for the uptake, utilisation, storage and homeostasis of iron in microbes, plants and mammals. Both iron deficiency and iron overload are found extensively in man: the intimate links between iron and oxidative stress are associated with a wide range of pathologies. Iron has a well-established role in infections by a wide range of microorganisms and parasites. Other metals such as copper and zinc are also closely linked with iron metabolism.
The first edition of this book was published in 1991. Since then the extensive impact of molecular cell biology on the field of iron biochemistry has opened new horizons in our understanding of the transport and storage of iron and of iron homeostasis. The application of molecular biological techniques to cellular biology of iron metabolism has resulted in a rapid expansion in the literature and has precipitated the need for this second edition.
Unlike the first edition this book is a collaboration between five authors providing expert knowledge in their individual specialist areas of research. Written, like the first edition, in a relaxed and humorous style, this new edition has many additional features including:
* use of illustrations - including extensive use of colour - to make basic concepts clearer
* a new chapter dealing with the interactions of iron with other metals particularly copper and zinc
* an extensive and up-to-date bibliography.
Inorganic Biochemistry of Iron Metabolism, Second Edition is both authoritative - author collaboration ensures coverage by specialists in a coherent manner and comprehensive - both fundamental concepts and applied aspects are covered. It will be essential reading for many researchers in biochemistry, molecular biology, microbiology, cell biology, nutrition and the medical sciences. These will include bioinorganic chemists with an interest in iron metabolism, health professionals with an interest in diseases of iron metabolism and pharmacologists in the pharmaceutical industry interested in developing novel iron binding drugs. |
