Who else but Apostle Hans Blunk could write this book, Prisoner to a Messenger? He actually knows what he is talking about; he has experienced everything that is included in this book And he undoubtedly is a mighty man of God, called by Him to serve Him among the nations. Reverend Doctor Benedictus Genty Bulu, MD, PhD, Ordained Pastor and Teacher Dean of Studies, Faith Theological Seminary, Africa Region Douala, Cameroon (Isa 45:2 KJV) I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron.

The main argument of this book is that cell signalling via nerves, hormones, local mediators and growth factors are not distinct phenomena, but branches of one general mechanism and should therefore be studied in an integrated manner. This volume is designed to act as a bridge between general texts and is aimed at biologists coming to the topic from a variety of backgrounds. The first two chapters introduce the general concepts of intracellular signalling and also cover the topic of direct cell-to-cell communication by cytoplasmic bridges (gap junctions). The remaining chapters cover the first and second messengers, starting with their structure, synthesis and release, progressing to the target cell and then working from the membrane inwards towards the nucleus. There is also a section on the mechanism of nervous conduction and the regulation of the ionic balace of cells. The final chapters discuss the regulation of cell growth and division and the special case of messengers acting via nuclear receptors.

Functional Biochemistry in Health and Disease provides a clear and straightforward account of the biochemistry that is necessary to understand the physiological functions of tissues or organs essential to the life of human beings. Focusing on the dynamic aspects of biochemistry and its application to the basic functions of the body, the book bridges the gap between biochemistry and medical practice. Carefully structured within five sections, each biochemical, physiological or medical subject that is covered in the book is presented in one complete chapter. Consequently, each subject can be read and studied in isolation although cross-sectional links between the subjects are included where necessary. Background material, both biochemical and medical, that is necessary for an understanding of the subject, is included at the start of each chapter and clear, relevant diagrams enhance students' understanding. * Focuses on medically relevant aspects of biochemistry written from a physiological rather than a chemical perspective. * Clear presentation that minimises the use of jargon. * Each chapter contains boxes on related topics, relevant diagrams and a brief glossary. * Coverage includes athletic performance, apoptosis and the immune system. * Key historical developments are included to show how modern biochemistry has evolved. By linking biochemistry, medical education and clinical practice this book will prove invaluable to students in medical and health sciences, biomedical science and human biology taking an introductory biochemistry course. In addition it will appeal to biochemistry and biology students interested in clinical applications of biochemistry.

This text offers a comprehensive introduction to molecular biology, genetics, and neurobiology relevant to psychiatry. Generously illustrated chapters are organized to be read at both an introductory and a more advanced level. Both beginners and advanced professionals will benefit from this text's discussion of how psychotropic drugs work and how gene-environment interactions may contribute to the pathogenesis of psychiatric disorders. The authors demonstrate how molecular investigations in psychiatry will revolutionize the field by leading to improved diagnostic testing, to new and more effective treatments, and ultimately to the development of preventive measures for mental illness.

Physiological Systems in Insects discusses the roles of molecular biology, neuroendocrinology, biochemistry, and genetics in our understanding of insects. All chapters in the new edition are updated, with major revisions to those covering swiftly evolving areas like endocrine, developmental, behavioral, and nervous systems. The new edition includes the latest details from the literature on hormone receptors, behavioral genetics, insect genomics, neural integration, and much more. Organized according to insect physiological functions, this book is fully updated with the latest and foundational research that has influenced understanding of the patterns and processes of insects and is a valuable addition to the collection of any researcher or student working with insects. There are about 10 quintillion insects in the world divided into more than one million known species, and some scientists believe there may be more than 30 million species. As the largest living group on earth, insects can provide us with insight into adaptation, evolution, and survival. The internationally respected third edition of Marc Klowden's standard reference for entomologists and researchers and textbook for insect physiology courses provides the most comprehensive analysis of the systems that make insects important contributors to our environment. Third edition has been updated with new information in almost every chapter and new figures Includes an extensive up-to-date bibliography in each chapter Provides a glossary of common entomological and physiological terms