The Tao of Chemistry and Life

A Scientific Journey

Nonfiction, Science & Nature, Science, Chemistry, Organic, Biological Sciences, Zoology
Cover of the book The Tao of Chemistry and Life by Eugene H. Cordes, Oxford University Press
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Eugene H. Cordes ISBN: 9780190451486
Publisher: Oxford University Press Publication: June 4, 2009
Imprint: Oxford University Press Language: English
Author: Eugene H. Cordes
ISBN: 9780190451486
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Publication: June 4, 2009
Imprint: Oxford University Press
Language: English

Written with the non-scientist in mind, this book employs the molecule and its interactions to explain the characteristics of living organisms in terms of the underlying chemistry of life. Following introductory chapters on the fundamentals of life, attention then turns to small molecules such as hormones and neurotransmitters and subsequently to macromolecules including proteins and nucleic acids. The interactions between small and macromolecules remains a central point throughout the book. These include enzymatic catalysis, hormone action, neurotransmission, regulation of metabolism, biosynthesis of macromolecules, the mechanism of action of drugs, taste, olfaction, learning and memory, and chemical communication. A second central point of emphasis is the sensitive relationship between chemical structure and biological activity. Examples abound and include why subtle changes in fatty acid architecture have positive or negative outcomes for human health in omega-three fatty acids and trans fats and how modest changes in the chemical decoration of the steroid skeleton provide the difference between male and female sex hormones. Beyond these examples taken from the chemistry of small molecules, the book includes a thoughtful consideration of genomics, including the relationship between genome structure and species. The theme of human health appears throughout the book. Cardiovascular medicine, cancer, metabolic diseases, and diseases of the nervous system receive significant attention including consideration of how a variety of drugs work in combating these issues. In sum, the goal of this book is to inform the non-scientist community in a way that will lead to increased understanding of the relationship between chemistry and life.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

Written with the non-scientist in mind, this book employs the molecule and its interactions to explain the characteristics of living organisms in terms of the underlying chemistry of life. Following introductory chapters on the fundamentals of life, attention then turns to small molecules such as hormones and neurotransmitters and subsequently to macromolecules including proteins and nucleic acids. The interactions between small and macromolecules remains a central point throughout the book. These include enzymatic catalysis, hormone action, neurotransmission, regulation of metabolism, biosynthesis of macromolecules, the mechanism of action of drugs, taste, olfaction, learning and memory, and chemical communication. A second central point of emphasis is the sensitive relationship between chemical structure and biological activity. Examples abound and include why subtle changes in fatty acid architecture have positive or negative outcomes for human health in omega-three fatty acids and trans fats and how modest changes in the chemical decoration of the steroid skeleton provide the difference between male and female sex hormones. Beyond these examples taken from the chemistry of small molecules, the book includes a thoughtful consideration of genomics, including the relationship between genome structure and species. The theme of human health appears throughout the book. Cardiovascular medicine, cancer, metabolic diseases, and diseases of the nervous system receive significant attention including consideration of how a variety of drugs work in combating these issues. In sum, the goal of this book is to inform the non-scientist community in a way that will lead to increased understanding of the relationship between chemistry and life.

More books from Oxford University Press

Cover of the book Great Catastrophe by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book The Nature Handbook by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Three Men in a Boat Level 4 Oxford Bookworms Library by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Contemporary Skepticism: Oxford Bibliographies Online Research Guide by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Aphasia and Its Therapy by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Christmas in Prague - With Audio Level 1 Oxford Bookworms Library by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Heaven by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Cognitive Approaches to Early Modern Spanish Literature by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Karachi by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Environmental Sound Artists by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Christianity, Islam, and Liberal Democracy by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Dead Man's Island Level 2 Oxford Bookworms Library by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Ungoverning Dance by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Advancing the Ball by Eugene H. Cordes
Cover of the book Women and Macro Social Work Practice: Oxford Bibliographies Online Research Guide by Eugene H. Cordes
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy