Ligand-macromolecule interactions are of fundamental importance in the control of biological processes. This book applies the principles of linkage thermodynamics to polyfunctional macromolecular systems under equilibrium conditions, and describes the binding, linkage, and feedback phenomena that lead to control of complex metabolic processes. The first chapter sets out the different processes (conformational changes, changes in state of aggregation, phase changes) involving biological macromolecules which are affected by chemical variables (such as ligands) or physical variables (such as temperature and pressure). The general effects of ligands on micromolecular conformations and interactions are illustrated with specific examples from the respiratory proteins, electron-transport proteins, and nucleic acid binding proteins. Subsequent chapters develop these themes, and describe in detail how the mathematics of regulation and control can be applied to macromolecules in biological system.

Macromolecules in the body form noncovalent associations, such as DNA-protein or protein-protein complexes, that control and regulate numerous cellular functions. Understanding how changes in the concentration and conformation of these macromolecules can trigger physiological responses is essential for researchers developing drug therapies to treat

Presents the physical background of ligand binding and instructs on how experiments should be designed and analyzed Reversible Ligand Binding: Theory and Experiment discusses the physical background of protein-ligand interactions—providing a comprehensive view of the various biochemical considerations that govern reversible, as well as irreversible, ligand binding. Special consideration is devoted to enzymology, a field usually treated separately from ligand binding, but actually governed by identical thermodynamic relationships. Attention is given to the design of the experiment, which aids in showing clear evidence of biochemical features that may otherwise escape notice. Classical experiments are reviewed in order to further highlight the importance of the design of the experiment. Overall, the book supplies students with the understanding that is necessary for interpreting ligand binding experiments, formulating plausible reaction schemes, and analyzing the data according to the chosen model(s). Topics covered include: theory of ligand binding to monomeric proteins; practical considerations and commonly encountered problems; oligomeric proteins with multiple binding sites; ligand binding kinetics; hemoglobin and its ligands; single-substrate enzymes and their inhibitors; two-substrate enzymes and their inhibitors; and rapid kinetic methods for studying enzyme reactions. Bridges theory of ligand binding and allostery with experiments Applies historical and physical insight to provide a clear understanding of ligand binding Written by a renowned author with long-standing research and teaching expertise in the area of ligand binding and allostery Based on FEBS Advanced Course lectures on the topic Reversible Ligand Binding: Theory and Experiment is an ideal text reference for students and scientists involved in biophysical chemistry, physical biochemistry, biophysics, molecular biology, protein engineering, drug design, pharmacology, physiology, biotechnology, and bioengineering.

Sugar chains (glycans) are often attached to proteins and lipids and have multiple roles in the organization and function of all organisms. "Essentials of Glycobiology" describes their biogenesis and function and offers a useful gateway to the understanding of glycans.