Computer-aided drug design and in silico screening have contributed to the discovery of several compounds that have either reached the market or entered clinical trials. In silico Lead Discovery is a compilation of the efforts of several experts on bioinformatics and drug design in developing the latest advances of in silico approaches for lead discovery. It contains an overview of structure-based, ligand-based methods and current fragment-based methods as well as examples for successful applications of such methods in discovering new hit/lead molecules for important therapeutic targets. Treatment of receptor flexibility - which is one of the most important challenges for in silico screening today – has also been highlighted in the eBook. Biomedical scientists, biologists and chemists can find valuable information here that could help them to initiate or to complete chemical biology projects with the goal of designing new hit-to-lead molecules or chemical probes for chemogenomics projects..

Degenerative nerve diseases are age-related, progressive and cause irreversible neurological loss that may lead to death. Chronic diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease are associated with insoluble protein depositions and pose serious health challenges that may intensify in the coming decades. Current therapies only help to alleviate some of the physical or mental symptoms associated with neurodegenerative diseases, although there is currently no remedy for slow disease progression. In recent years, attempts have been made to discover a mechanism for neurodegenerative diseases and prospective treatment that may help mitigate aging effects and prevent these diseases. Natural products have been a constant source of new approaches for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, in particular plant alkaloids and polyphenolic compounds. Indopathy for Neuroprotection: Recent Advances highlights herbal treatments that are preferred over conventional treatments in some regions. Book chapters focus on the effects of various medicinal plants that have shown promise in reversing pathological symptoms of neurodegenerative disease and highlight the neuroprotective role of medicinal herbal phytochemicals and their mechanism of action. The book serves as a reference for pharmacology and herbal medicine scholars as well as healthcare workers interested in information about alternative and complementary therapies for neurological disorders.

Inositol and its phosphates are ubiquitous across most life forms, wherein they play important roles in cellular integrity and functions such as signal transduction, DNA damage repair ion transport and mRNA transport. This reference details the biochemistry and industrial applications of inositol and its phosphate derivatives. Topics covered in this book include the use of inositol and its hexaphosphate (IP6) for numerous health benefits – as antioxidants, as an anti-cancer drug, for the management of atherosclerosis, diabetes, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, sickle cell anemia, and even in fighting tooth decay. Readers will also learn about Industrial applications of Inositol including preservation of food and wine, nanotechnology, lithium ion battery, fuel cell technology etc. Inositol & its Phosphates: Basic Science to Practical Applications is a valuable reference for any researcher or aspiring biomedical professional seeking to know more about this fascinating metabolite.

This book presents a definitive exposition of citrus pests and their integrated, mostly non-chemical , control in the Mediterranean area. This is the first book on this topic written by experts from various countries around the Mediterranean region. It provides useful information about the different agricultural management methods and how they impact pest control on various citrus plant species and varieties grown in the aforementioned region. The volume also describes methods of pest sampling, monitoring practices and determining the pests' economic thresholds. Special features of this text include updated data on various pests, their damage and control methods, key identification methods and a relevant glossary. The e-book should be a comprehensive guide for readers interested in citrus crops and integrated pest management.

Introduction to Molecular Genomics introduces the college student to the fundamental concepts of molecular biology and genomics. The text puts an emphasis on important topics in the subject that contribute to the learner’s understanding. These topics include molecular genomics, biodiversity and molecular phenomenon behind evolution of species, modern molecular methods for enhanced genomics research, DNA modifications at the molecular level for transgenic animal species, the role of cell environment on the gene expression, to name a few. The book has been designed to suit the requirements of educational courses in molecular biology, genomics and biochemistry. <p> Key features <p> - Covers basic concepts on key topics in molecular biology and genomics <p> - Simple easy-to-read layout <p> - Includes references for further reading <p> - Includes a section on ethical aspects of scientific research <p> Introduction to Molecular Genomics is a simple primer for students in applied or advanced life science courses at undergraduate levels

Medicinal Plants: Microbial Interactions, Molecular Techniques, and Therapeutic Trends is a comprehensive exploration of the fascinating world of medicinal plants, their therapeutic advancements, and the application of molecular techniques to unlock their full potential. This book is structured into three illuminating sections, each shedding light on different facets of this rapidly developing field. Section 1: Exploring Plant-Microbe Interactions Covers the relationship between microbes and plants, the historical context and the pivotal role of microbes in shaping the future of medicinal plants. Discover the diverse array of bacteria associated with these plants and grasp their significance in enhancing the medicinal value of plants. Section 2: Harnessing Molecular Techniques Covers cutting-edge molecular techniques such as genome editing and modern breeding methods to optimize the genetic traits of medicinal plants. By understanding these techniques, readers will learn how to enhance plant growth, yield and quality. Section 3: Nanotechnology for Therapeutic Enhancement Covers nanotechnology and its transformative impact on medicinal plants. The section highlights emerging nano-engineering technology that can revolutionize the therapeutic properties of these plants. Medicinal Plants: Microbial Interactions, Molecular Techniques, and Therapeutic Trends is a book for Interdisciplinary readers: students, scientists, academics, and industry professionals alike. Whether you're a student, scientist, academic, or industry professional, this book is your gateway to the evolving world of plant-based medicine.

Melanin is a biological molecule associated with pigmentation in humans and animals. However, melanin has been observed to have other functions such as neuroprotection and energy production. In Melanin, the Master Molecule, researchers summarize several decades worth of knowledge on melanin and its physicochemical properties. Nine chapters explain the intrinsic biochemistry of melanin, comparisons with conventional energy producing and respiratory biomolecules, the property of melanin to transform light energy into chemical energy through the dissociation of the water molecule, and the theories of melanin based energy production in the nervous system, the cell nucleus, muscles and the eye, and the role the role of melanin in the context of ageing. The authors also delve into the possibility of melanin being the key molecule needed to spark life since its water dissociating property through the absorption of light energy emulates the role of chlorophyll, but unlike the latter, it is not limited to the plant cell environment. Hence, melanin is referred to as the master molecule which can provide a missing link to the biochemical processes behind the origin of life. Melanin, the Master Molecule is an exciting reference for biochemists and laymen interested in the science of melanin and a new perspective on the origin of life as we know it.

Methods to Determine Enzymatic Activity is a textbook about industrial enzymes. The book features definitions, classifications and applications of selected enzymes important in industry and in biotechnological processes. Analytical methods for these enzymes are also included in the text. The main objective of this textbook is to provide readers information focused on the current analysis methods of enzymatic activity at qualitative and quantitative levels. Each chapter is about one specific enzyme and contains information about its substrate and some biochemical properties. The methodologies are presented as an experimental protocol allowing interested readers to reproduce the experimental methods detailed within the textbook. These protocols contain the principle of the technique, materials, methods, and all steps necessary for the determination of enzyme activity and interpretation of results. Each methodology is illustrated with photos and schemes for a better and clear understanding. This book, therefore, uniquely brings modern analysis techniques of industrial enzymes in a single easy to understand volume. This textbook is suitable for undergraduate enzymology courses and advanced industrial biotechnology and microbiology courses.

Micronutrient Deficiency in Soils and Plants highlights the problems caused by micronutrient deficiencies in vegetative production. This eBook emphasizes on the necessary requirements for plant growth micronutrients, the vital deficiency symptoms of micronutrients and their crucial role in plant metabolism. The scope of this eBook covers a range of topics including micronutrient deficiency, the availability of micronutrient in soils, plant metabolism and micronutrient solubility. The contents of this eBook include chapters on micronutrient solubility and availability in soils, the role of micronutrients in plant metabolism and growth and diagnostic tools to assess deficiencies of iron, zinc, copper and other micro-nutrients. Micronutrient Deficiency in Soils and Plants is a valuable resource for MSc and PhD students, academic personnel and researchers seeking updated and critically important information on major nutritional problems in agricultural soils and crops.