This text investigates the relationship between the chemical structure of carbohydrate polymers and their physical properties in biological systems. D.A. Rees, a specialist in polysaccharide chemistry, utilizes structural analysis and conformational theory to explain how molecular geometry dictates the function of complex sugars in nature.

Experts recognize this work as a specialized contribution to the Contemporary Science Paperbacks series, providing a focused look at structural biochemistry. Readers often note the technical density of the prose, which assumes a foundational understanding of chemical bonding and molecular geometry.