Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Now in its fifth edition Biochemistry and Molecular Biology features a new author team, who have retained the much-praised clarity of previous editions, while adding a more biomedical focus and incorporating a discussion of recent developments in research. A new chapter on the general principles of nutrition emphasises the key principles underlying complex metabolic pathways, enabling students to appreciate an integrated view of human metabolism and nutrition. Also new to the fifth edition, a chapter on the control of gene expression reflects our increasing understanding of the importance and power of gene regulation. With an integrated approach covering both biochemistry and molecular biology, complemented by frequent diagrams and clear explanations, and all presented in a broader cellular context, this text is the perfect introduction for any student new to the subject. Online Resource Centre: The Online Resource Centre features: For registered adopters of the book: * Figures from the book available to download For students: * Further reading organised by chapter, linked to the book via QR codes * An extensive bank of multiple-choice questions for self-directed learning * Links to 3D molecular structuresPART 1: BASIC CONCEPTS OF LIFE ; 1. The basic molecular themes of life ; 2. Cells and viruses ; 3. Energy considerations in biochemistry ; PART 2: STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION OF PROTEINS AND MEMBRANES ; 4. The structure of proteins ; 5. Methods in protein investigation ; 6. Enzymes ; 7. The cell membrane and membrane proteins ; 8. Muscle contraction, the cytoskeleton, and molecular motors ; PART 3: METABOLISM AND NUTRITION ; 9. General principles of nutrition ; 10. Food digestion, absorption, and distribution to the tissues ; 11. Mechanisms of transport, storage, and mobilization of dietary components ; 12. Principles of energy release from food ; 13. Glycolysis, the TCA cycle, and the electron transport system ; 14. Energy release from fat ; 15. An alternative pathway of glucose oxidation. The pentose phosphate pathway ; 16. Synthesis of glucose (gluconeogenesis) ; 17. Synthesis of fat and related compounds ; 18. Nitrogen metabolism: amino acid metabolism ; 19. Nitrogen metabolism: nucleotide metabolism ; 20. Mechanisms of metabolic control and their applications to metabolic integration ; 21. Raising electrons of water back up the energy scale - photosynthesis ; PART 4: INFORMATION STORAGE AND UTILIZATION ; 22. The genome ; 23. DNA synthesis, repair, and recombination ; 24. Gene transcription ; 25. Protein synthesis and controlled protein breakdown ; 26. Control of gene expression ; 27. Protein sorting and delivery ; 28. Manipulating DNA and genes ; PART 5: CELLS AND TISSUES ; 29. Cell signalling ; 30. The cell cycle, cell division, and cell death ; 31. Cancer ; PART 6: PROTECTIVE MECHANISMS AGAINST DISEASE ; 32. Special topics: blood clotting, xenobiotic metabolism, reactive oxygen species ; 33. The immune system