This unique volume reviews the beautiful architectures and varying mechanical actions of the set of specialized cellular proteins called molecular chaperones, which provide essential kinetic assistance to processes of protein folding and unfolding in the cell. Ranging from multisubunit ring-shaped chaperonin and Hsp100 machines that use their central cavities to bind and compartmentalize action on proteins, to machines that use other topologies of recognition — binding cellular proteins in an archway or at the surface of a 'clamp' or at the surface of a globular assembly — the structures show us the ways and means the cell has devised to assist its major effectors, proteins, to reach and maintain their unique active forms, as well as, when required, to disrupt protein structure in order to remodel or degrade. Each type of chaperone is beautifully illustrated by X-ray and EM structure determinations at near- atomic level resolution and described by a leader in the study of the respective family. The beauty of what Mother Nature has devised to accomplish essential assisting actions for proteins in vivo is fully appreciable.

The first of its kind, this volume presents the latest research findings on the chaperonins, the best studied family of a class of proteins known as molecular chaperones. These findings are changing our view of some fundamental cellular processes involving proteins, especially how proteins fold into their functional conformations. - Origins of the new view of protein folding - Prokaryotic chaperonins - Eukaryotic chaperonins - Evolution of the chaperonins - Refolding of denatured proteins - Organelle biosynthesis - Biomedical aspects

This comprehensive encyclopedic reference provides rapid access to focused information on topics of cancer research for clinicians, research scientists and advanced students. Given the overwhelming success of the first edition, which appeared in 2001, and fast development in the different fields of cancer research, it has been decided to publish a second fully revised and expanded edition. With an A-Z format of over 7,000 entries, more than 1,000 contributing authors provide a complete reference to cancer. The merging of different basic and clinical scientific disciplines towards the common goal of fighting cancer makes such a comprehensive reference source all the more timely.

This volume of Advances in Protein Chemistry provides a broad, yet deep look at the cellular components that assist protein folding in the cell. This area of research is relatively new--10 years ago these components were barely recognized, so this book is a particularly timely compilation of current information. Topics covered include a review of the structure and mechanism of the major chaperone components, prion formation in yeast, and the use of microarrays in studying stress response. Outlines preceding each chapter allow the reader to quickly access the subjects of greatest interest. The information presented in this book should appeal to biochemists, cell biologists, and structural biologists.

This book makes a novel synthesis of the molecular aspects of the stress response and long term adaptation processes with the system biology approach of biological networks. Authored by an exciting mixture of top experts and young rising stars, it provides a comprehensive summary of the field and identifies future trends.

Molecular Biology or Molecular Genetics - Biology Department Biochemical Genetics - Biology or Biochemistry Department Microbial Genetics - Genetics Department The book is typically used in a one-semester course that may be taught in the fall or the spring. However, the book contains sufficient information so that it could be used for a full year course. It is appropriate for juniors and seniors or first year graduate students.