Synaptic transmission is the basis of neuronal communication and is thus the most important element in brain functions, ranging from sensory input to information processing. Changes in synaptic transmission can result in the formation or dissolution of memories, and can equally lead to neurological and psychiatric disorders. The proteins composing the synapse, and their respective functions, are getting increasingly known. One aspect that has become evident in the last years is that most synaptic functions are performed not by single proteins, but by highly organized multi-protein machineries, which interact dynamically to provide responses optimally suited to the needs of the neuronal network. To decipher synaptic and neuronal function, it is essential to understand the organisational, morphological and functional aspects of the molecular nanomachines that operate at the synapse. We discuss these aspects in 11 different chapters, focusing on the structure and function of the active zone, on the functional anatomy of the synaptic vesicle, and on some of the best known soluble protein complexes from the synapse, including those involved in endocytosis and vesicle recycling.

In this book, the major paradigm-shifting discoveries made in the past century on key cellular nanomachines are described in great detail: their complex yet precise and elegant design and function, as well as the diseases linked to their dysfunction and the therapeutic approaches to overcome them. The major focus of this book is the “porosome” nanomachine, the universal secretory portal in cells. This is an ideal book for students, researchers, and professionals in the fields of nanoscience and nanotechnology.

The enormous advances in nanomedicine and precision medicine in the past two decades necessitated this comprehensive reference, which can be relied upon by researchers, clinicians, pharmaceutical scientists, regulators, policymakers, and lawyers alike. This standalone, full-color resource broadly surveys innovative technologies and advances pertaining to nanomedicine and precision medicine. In addition, it addresses often-neglected yet crucial areas such as translational medicine, intellectual property law, ethics, policy, FDA regulatory issues, nano-nomenclature, and artificial nano-machines—all accomplished in a user-friendly, broad yet interconnected format. The book is essential reading for the novice and the expert alike in diverse fields such as medicine, law, pharmacy, genomics, biomedical sciences, ethics, and regulatory science. The book’s multidisciplinary approach will attract a global audience and serve as a valuable reference resource for industry, academia, and government.

Unveiling the latest research in neurophysiology, Cellular and Molecular Neurophysiology, Fifth Edition continues to stand as the only resource in the field. This book remains the standard for those who seek to explore the intricate molecular and cellular physiology of neurons and synapses. Notably, this new edition delves even deeper into the molecular properties and functions of excitable cells, offering unparalleled insights. In this edition, there are two groundbreaking chapters. The first reviews metabotropic receptors for olfactory transduction, while the second presents cutting-edge techniques for neuroscience research. Hypothesis-driven rather than a dry presentation of facts, the content firmly based on numerous experiments performed by top experts in the field, teaches students how to build and conduct intelligent research experiments. This book promotes a true understanding of nerve cell function and will be a useful resource for practicing neurophysiologists, neurobiologists, neurologists, and students in a graduate-level course on the topic alike. - Authoritative foundational coverage of basic cellular and molecular neurophysiology - Includes new chapters on metabotropic olfactory receptors for sensory transduction and experimental techniques used by neurophysiologists

The maturation of nanotechnology has revealed it to be a unique and distinct discipline rather than a specialization within a larger field. Its textbook cannot afford to be a chemistry, physics, or engineering text focused on nano. It must be an integrated, multidisciplinary, and specifically nano textbook. The archetype of the modern nano textbook