This book review series presents current trends in modern biotechnology. The aim is to cover all aspects of this interdisciplinary technology where knowledge, methods and expertise are required from chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, genetics, chemical engineering and computer science. Volumes are organized topically and provide a comprehensive discussion of developments in the respective field over the past 3-5 years. The series also discusses new discoveries and applications. Special volumes are dedicated to selected topics which focus on new biotechnological products and new processes for their synthesis and purification. In general, special volumes are edited by well-known guest editors. The series editor and publisher will however always be pleased to receive suggestions and supplementary information. Manuscripts are accepted in English.

The American Anti-Vivisection Society (AAVS) petitioned the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on April 23, 1997, to prohibit the use of animals in the production of mAb. On September 18, 1997, NIH declined to prohibit the use of mice in mAb production, stating that "the ascites method of mAb production is scientifically appropriate for some research projects and cannot be replaced." On March 26, 1998, AAVS submitted a second petition, stating that "NIH failed to provide valid scientific reasons for not supporting a proposed ban." The office of the NIH director asked the National Research Council to conduct a study of methods of producing mAb. In response to that request, the Research Council appointed the Committee on Methods of Producing Monoclonal Antibodies, to act on behalf of the Institute for Laboratory Animal Research of the Commission on Life Sciences, to conduct the study. The 11 expert members of the committee had extensive experience in biomedical research, laboratory animal medicine, animal welfare, pain research, and patient advocacy (Appendix B). The committee was asked to determine whether there was a scientific necessity for the mouse ascites method; if so, whether the method caused pain or distress; and, if so, what could be done to minimize the pain or distress. The committee was also asked to comment on available in vitro methods; to suggest what acceptable scientific rationale, if any, there was for using the mouse ascites method; and to identify regulatory requirements for the continued use of the mouse ascites method. The committee held an open data-gathering meeting during which its members summarized data bearing on those questions. A 1-day workshop (Appendix A) was attended by 34 participants, 14 of whom made formal presentations. A second meeting was held to finalize the report. The present report was written on the basis of information in the literature and information presented at the meeting and the workshop.

Before now, biological systems could only be expressed in terms of linear relationships, however, as knowledge grows and new techniques of analysis on biological systems is made available, we are realizing the non-linearity of these systems. The concepts and techniques of nonlinear analysis allow for more realistic and accurate models in science. The Future of Pharmaceuticals: A Nonlinear Analysis provides an opportunity to understand the non-linearity of biological systems and its application in various areas of science, primarily pharmaceutical sciences. This book will benefit professionals in pharmaceutical industries, academia, and policy who are interested in an entirely new approach to how we will treat disease in the future. Key Features: Addresses a new approach of nonlinear analysis. Applies a theory of projection to chalk out the future, instead of basing on linear evolution. Provides an opportunity to better understand the non-linearity in biological systems and its applications in various areas of science, primarily pharmaceutical sciences. Helps change the thought process for those looking for answers to their questions which they do not find in the linear relationship approach. Encourages a broader perspective for the creative process of drug development.

This book describes medical applications of recombinant proteins and monoclonal antibodies, some of which have already been on the market for several years while others have only recently been launched. It also highlights the manufacturing processes for individual products, the strategies that were taken by companies in the clinical development, and the hurdles that were encountered in clinical trials and had to be overcome before approval by regulatory authorities. Finally, this book illustrates strategies to modify and improve the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic properties of naturally occurring proteins thus paving the way for a new era in biotechnology.

This highly readable textbook serves as a concise and engaging primer to the emerging field of antibody engineering and its various applications. It introduces readers to the basic science and molecular structure of antibodies, and explores how to characterize and engineer them. Readers will find an overview of the latest methods in antibody identification, improvement and biochemical engineering. Furthermore, alternative antibody formats and bispecific antibodies are discussed. The book’s content is based on lectures for the specializations “Protein Engineering” and “Medical Biotechnology” within the Master’s curriculum in “Biotechnology.” The lectures have been held at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, in cooperation with the Medical University of Vienna, since 2012 and are continuously adapted to reflect the latest developments in the field. The book addresses Master’s and PhD students in biotechnology, molecular biology and immunology, and all those who are interested in antibody engineering.