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Synopsis
Nerve cells - neurons - are arguably the most complex of all cells. From the action of these cells comes movement, thought and consciousness. It is a challenging task to understand what molecules direct the various diverse aspects of their function. This has produced an ever-increasing amount of molecular information about neurons, and only in Molecular Biology of the Neuron can a large part of this information be found in one source. In this book, a non-specialist can learn about the molecules that control information flow in the brain or the progress of brain disease in an approachable format, while the expert has acess to a wealth of detailed information from a wide range of topics impacting on his or her field of endeavour.
In the six years since the first edition of Molecular Biology of the Neuron there has been an explosion in the molecular information about neurons that has been discovered, and this information is incorporated into this second edition. Entirely new chapters have been introduced where recent advances have made a new aspect of neuronal function more comprehensible at the molecular level. Written by leading researchers in the field, the book provides an essential overview of the molecular structure and function of neurons, and will be an invaluable tool to students and researchers alike.
Doody Review Services
Reviewer:Celso Agner, MD, MSc(University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine)
Description:Molecular biology has revolutionized the understanding of neuroscience. The neuron, as the basic unit of the nervous system, is one of the current major focuses. The understanding of its functions may provide better treatment forms for diseases currently incurable by traditional means.
Purpose:The purpose of this book is to address the main aspects of the molecular biology of neurons, in particular what is related to the functions associated with behavior. These worthy objectives are fully met by the authors.
Audience:Neuroscientists and neurologists will find this book a useful source of information. The authors are credible authorities in the field and have completely achieved their goals.
Features:Twenty-five authors contribute 16 chapters. The well-written text makes for easy reading, understanding, and extrapolation of concepts associated with the molecular biology of neurons. The fantastic micro-world of neurons is explained in detail, going to the genetic roots, gene expression and co-factors necessary for the complete manifestation of specific functions. The pictures are of very good quality. The book is affordable for students and physicians alike.
Assessment:This is a good book for neuroscience libraries. I doubt it has much clinical relevance, but some professionals may be particularly interested in reading about this topic.