The purpose of this two-volume work is to provide an update on the use of this powerful technology. As such, the books provide an insight in to the techniques for the non-specialist. Scientists embarking upon st udies in chronic lung disease will find a review of the current status of research. At the same time, the books are useful to clinicians, bo th specialist and academic, and to scientists already involved in the basic aspects of the pathogenesis of lung disease. Both volumes deal w ith basic mechanisms of cell biology, receptors and cellactivation and provide an insight as to how the technology influences our concepts o f pathogenesis and viceversa.

The techniques and knowledge in molecular biology are advancing rapidly. The basic mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of various lung conditions including asthma, COPD and lung cancer are being clarified by the application of this powerful technology. Genetic causes of single gene disorders such as cystic fibrosis and alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency have now been well delineated. This progress leads to an understanding of the pathogenic process that result in disease. The purpose of Volumes I and II of "Molecular Biology of the Lung" is to provide an update on the use of this powerful technology. As such, the books provide an insight into the techniques for the non-specialist. Scientists embarking upon studies in chronic lung disease will find a review of the current status of research. At the same time, the books are useful to clinicians, both specialist and academic, and to scientists already involved in the basic aspects of the pathogenesis of lung disease. Both volumes deal with basic mechanisms of cell biology, receptors and cell activation and provides an insight as to how the technology influences our concepts of pathogenesis and vice versa.

Acute lung injury (ALI) impacts patient care in every ICU in the world. Our collective understanding of this condition has grown immensely over the past decade but morbidity and mortality remain unacceptably high. To enhance the understanding of clinicians and researchers, this book addresses the pathophysiology of acute lung injury from a molecular and cellular standpoint; includes animal models of acute lung injury and points to potential therapeutic advances based on scientific findings. It is a concise compendium of the multiple pathways, mechanisms and molecules involved in the pathophysiology of acute lung injury and is intended to help caregivers understand the process and thus care for patients more effectively.

Alan B. Weitberg, MD, and a panel of internationally recognized basic scientists and clinicians present a comprehensive discussion of lung cancer, including a practice-oriented review of its diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment. The contributors offer not only an understandable description of its molecular origins-an essential key to developing future therapies and preventive measures-but also rigorously discuss well-tested approaches, as well as those that are currently being evaluated for future use in both the laboratory and clinic. The book also elucidates the creation and effective deployment of treatment guidelines introduced by third party payers to improve clinical outcomes, even while lowering healthcare costs.