Now in a second edition, Biochemistry of Inorganic Polyphosphates fills the need for an exhaustive resource on inorganic polyphosphate metabolism. The authors describe the structure and properties of these compounds and presents a comparative analysis of the newest and traditional methods of their extraction from cells. Distribution of polyphosphates in organisms, their localization in cells and tissues is also described. Comprehensive presentation of inorganic polyphosphate metabolism Follows polyphosphates in cells of organisms from different stages of evolution Presents methods for the analysis and study of polyP-dependent enzymes Comprehensive information on genetics, metabolism and biotechnology of polyphosphates Textbook and reference work on all aspects of polyphosphates

Inorganic polyphosphates - polymers of orthophosphate linked by high-energy phosphoanhydride bonds - have been found in apparently all forms of life, from bacteria, yeasts and fungi to higher plants and animals. These polymers, which had been neglected for a long time, have become a fascinating area of research in the last few years. This volume summarizes the present state of knowledge about the metabolism and function of inorganic polyphosphates. In addition, the methods to study these polymers as well as the biotechnological applications of inorganic polyphosphates are described. The 15 chapters of this volume, dealing with different aspects of polyphosphate research, are written by experts in the field. This book represents a valuable source of information not only for researchers working on this subject, but also for scientists interested in fundamental aspects of cell and energy metabolism.

This volume focuses on the biomedical aspects of inorganic polyphosphates, a family of unique bio-inorganic polymers. In recent years, great advances have been made in understanding the development, metabolism, and physiological role of inorganic polyphosphates. These energy-rich polymers, which consist of long chains of phosphate units, are evolutionary old molecules. The acidocalcisomes, conserved organelles from bacteria to humans, as well as the mitochondria play a central role in polyphosphate production and storage. Polyphosphates have been assigned multiple functions, some of which are closely related to medically important processes, such as blood coagulation and fibrinolysis, energy metabolism, cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, chaperon function, microvascularization, stress response, neurodegeneration and aging. The development of bioinspired polyphosphate particles, in combination with suitable hydrogel-forming polymers enabled the development of new strategies in regenerative medicine, in particular for hard and soft tissue repair, but also in drug delivery and antimicrobial defense. This book not only highlights the basic research in this area, but also discusses possible applications. Therefore, it appeals to scientists working in cell biology, biochemistry, and biomedicine and practicioners alike.

Inorganic polyphosphates - polymers of orthophosphate linked by high-energy phosphoanhydride bonds - have been found in apparently all forms of life, from bacteria, yeasts and fungi to higher plants and animals. These polymers, which had been neglected for a long time, have become a fascinating area of research in the last few years. This volume summarizes the present state of knowledge about the metabolism and function of inorganic polyphosphates. In addition, the methods to study these polymers as well as the biotechnological applications of inorganic polyphosphates are described. The 15 chapters of this volume, dealing with different aspects of polyphosphate research, are written by experts in the field. This book represents a valuable source of information not only for researchers working on this subject, but also for scientists interested in fundamental aspects of cell and energy metabolism.

The book elucidates the role of inorganic polyphosphates in eukaryotic cells, from fungi and protozoa to human being. To date, there is plenty of evidence that these anionic biopolymers occurring in the cells of all living organisms, from bacteria to humans, perform numerous regulatory functions. The book describes the evolution of PolyPs, their role in lower eukaryotes and their involvement in various processes in the human organism, as well as its use in biomaterials such as bioactive glass and engineered bone tissue. The aim of this book is to summarize the data of the past decade on the functional role of inorganic polyphosphates in eukaryotes and discuss their biological role also in context of common human diseases. The book will provide a modern concept of the functional significance of these biopolymers, useful for researchers in cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology and biomedicine alike.

The new series "Microbiology Monographs" begins with two volumes on intracellular components in prokaryotes. In this first volume, "Inclusions in Prokaryotes", the components, labeled inclusions, are defined as discrete bodies resulting from synthesis of a metabolic product. Research on the biosynthesis and reutilization of the accumulated materials is still in progress, and interest in the inclusions is growing. This comprehensive volume provides historical background and comprehensive reviews of eight well-known prokaryotic inclusions.

Dr. Heinonen reviews and critically evaluates the scientific literature on the biological role of inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi ) published from 1940 to the end of 1999. He describes and classifies all known biochemical reactions that produce Ppi; describes and evaluates all published methods used in biological Ppi; and compiles and critically evaluates information on the concentration of PPi (with the conclusion that, contrary to common belief, PPi exists throughout the living world in rather high concentrations). Many reactions in which PPi is used as a biochemical energy source instead of ATP have been described in recent decades, especially in bacteria, protists, and plants. These reactions are evaluated from the bioenergetic and regulatory points of view. Also considered is the possible role of PPi as a source of biochemical energy in the primitive phases of life, before ATP. Data is presented on the regulatory role of PPi in living systems, such as activities of enzymes, fidelity of syntheses of macromolecules, and proliferation of cells. PPi may also regulate the formation and dissolution of bone as well as pathologic calcification of soft tissues and the formation of urinary stones. The formation of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in the extracellular fluids of joints cause the disease called pseudogout. Biological Role of Inorganic Pyrophosphate book is a unique and invaluable source of references (about 1120) and summarized data for professionals who study or plan to study the role of PPi in living systems. Many different branches of science (biochemistry, microbiology, bioenergetics, plant physiology, parasitology, evolution, orthopedics, rheumatology) have involvement with PPi. This book sums up available knowledge in one place and will help scientists cross disciplinary boundaries.