Author Description

Cell surface carbohydrates play critical roles in cell-cell interaction. In recent years, major advances have been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms of these processes. Genes encoding glycosyltransferases that synthesize unique oligosaccharides have been isolated, allowing the correlation of specific oligosaccharide structures with function. This book brings together leading researchers to describe our current knowledge in this important area of modern biology. Particular emphasis is given to cell-type-specific carbohydrate expression and the carbohydrates and proteins involved in cell recognition. Also included is a full discussion of key experimental approaches such as chemical synthesis and the three-dimensional structural analysis of carbohydrates.Molecular Glycobiology is a timely synopsis of this exciting and rapidly expanding field. It provides both an up-to-date description of the subject and leading researchers' views of likely future developments. As such, this volume will be invaluable for active researchers in glycobiology and medicine. However, its easily readable style will also appeal to non-specialists who need an authoritative but accessible text on this subject.