Author Description

Product DescriptionTwenty inorganic elements, mostly metal ions, are consistently found in living systems and are essential for living systems to function correctly. This text discusses, describes and explains the functional relevance of those elements: the reasons for their selection; the processes of theiruptake; transport and final localization in cells; the regulation of these processes; and the interactive network of their reactions that connects the in vivo inorganic elements to the environment and to the genome. The volume has been thoroughly revised for this second edition and includes adiscussion of the link to the genome of the uptake and transfer of inorganic elements and the regulation of homeostasis, the functional co-operative activities of the elements, the interaction with the environment, and the evolution of usage. Recent structural and mechanistic knowledge of manybiomolecules and organelles is also included.Review`Review from previous edition 'rich and refreshing...in addition to being a general resource, this engaging book provides an excellent text for an advanced course and should have much to teach both students and teachers.'' Nature`'Because Williams's numerous publications cut a wide swath, it is useful to have this book where his breadth of knowledge, viewpoints and insights reside conveniently in one place... this engaging book provides an excellent text for an advanced course and should have much to teach both students and teachers.'' Nature``This account is no mere review or compendium but an original and imaginative synthesis of its subject matter. Its powerful insights will change the way the subject develops, if only because the authors sometimes run ahead of our ability to give a complete or detailed description of a given system. In short it sets a chemical framework within which biology and its evolution can be understood and interpreted.'' Journal of Bioinorganic Chemistry``I recommend this book to all biologists and I am certain that it will prove something of a literary landmark in its contribution to the understanding of biology in the future.'' TIBS``Destined to become the bible of bio-inorganic chemistry. The Biological Chemistry of the Elements is a superb book.'' THES`'This is a comprehensive treatment of the role of the chemical elements... The book will be of interest to both chemists and biologists and students of biochemistry would certainly benefit from reading it.'' ASLIB Book Guide`'outstanding book... The contents are well ordered and liberally subtitled and there are many excellent tables and figures, which are all helpful to the reader. I recommend this book to all biologists and I am certain that it will prove something of a literary landmark in its contribution to the understanding of biology in the future.'' TIBS'stimulating book' Biologist`'It is a remarkable book in range and bioinorganic vision. Each section is well referenced with further reading, required for rounding-out the global perspectives presented.'' Chemistry and Industry`'This book presents a novel approach to the subject of biochemistry, which is both interesting and fascinating... practicing scientists from either biochemistry or inorganic chemistry would find this book a valuable source for relevant information regarding the impact of the other discipline on their own... For a person working at the interface of inorganic chemistry and biochemistry this book will be extremely valuable. For others it will be an excellent reference to have at hand. The book is well written and understandable.'' Journal of Chemical Education`'The text is arranged in short sections with headings that stand out clearly, and a liberal use is made of space, all of which makes for excellent clarity. "The Biological Chemistry of the Elements" is an attractive book and is a pleasure to read.'' Angewandte Chemis`'The importance of these essential elements is explained in a fresh and original man