The Tao of Chemistry and Life: A Scientific Journey

• Publisher:   Oxford University Press, USA
• Number Of Pages:   432
• Publication Date:   2009-06-04
• ISBN-10 / ASIN:   0195369637
• ISBN-13 / EAN:   9780195369632

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.

Engagingly written, linking examples from real life with "how things work", this text explains the basis for life in a way everyone can enjoy, understand and learn from--from high school student to college professor. Topics range from what vitamins are and how they work, to an updated view of the "central dogma" of molecular biology and genomics, to such specific issues as "steroids--sex and other good things" to the brain, including "good and not-so-good things". Should be essential reading for an informed public!

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