Chondroitin Sulfate

Download Chondroitin Sulfate full books in PDF, epub, and Kindle. Read online Chondroitin Sulfate ebook anywhere anytime directly on your device. Fast Download speed and no annoying ads. We cannot guarantee that every ebooks is available!

Chondroitin Sulfate

Author : Vitor H. Pomin
Publisher : Nova Science Publishers
ISBN 13 : 9781628084900
Total Pages : 0 pages
Book Rating : 4.0/5 (849 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Chondroitin Sulfate by : Vitor H. Pomin

Download or read book Chondroitin Sulfate written by Vitor H. Pomin and published by Nova Science Publishers. This book was released on 2013 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Chondroitin sulfate (CS) is the most abundant glycosaminoglycan (GAG) of the human body. Besides its natural occurrence as side chains in physiologically active proteoglycans localised at the extracellular matrices and/or at cell surfaces, this GAG can also be found in marine organisms with differential structures and functions, such as the anticoagulant fucosylated chondroitin sulphate isolated from sea-cucumbers. In addition, CSs isolated from vertebrate sources, such as shark and whale cartilages, are used as a biomedical ingredient for alternative medicinal therapies of osteoarthritis, osteoarthrosis, and possibly osteoporosis. CS formulations for oral administration are also employed as a nutraceutical to prevent lesions or degenerations of joint cartilages, especially in those people susceptible to physical impacts of their knees, like athletes, soccer players and dancers. In terms of structure, this GAG can show different sulfation patterns that vary accordingly with the types of cell, tissue, organism, and pathological conditions. However, the saccharide backbone of CS is always made up of alternating galactosamine and an uronic acid unit, regardless the source or condition. This book presents a compilation of some of the recent achievements obtained by scientific research on CS. Overall the most relevant areas and sub-areas regarding the science of this GAG type are somewhat discussed herein. The major areas include biology, biotechnology, physiology, chemistry and pharmacology. Specific sub-areas are biosynthesis, chemical and enzymatic modifications, extraction methods, occurrence and abundance, in vitro enzymatic degradations, structural diversity versus functions, disease-related mechanisms, physiological roles, medical applications, and novel methods of structural characterisation. The contributing authors of this publication are internationally recognised leaders in the field. All these features contribute significantly to the quality of this publication.

Essentials of Glycobiology

Author : Ajit Varki
Publisher : CSHL Press
ISBN 13 : 9780879696818
Total Pages : 694 pages
Book Rating : 4.6/5 (968 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Essentials of Glycobiology by : Ajit Varki

Download or read book Essentials of Glycobiology written by Ajit Varki and published by CSHL Press. This book was released on 1999 with total page 694 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Sugar chains (glycans) are often attached to proteins and lipids and have multiple roles in the organization and function of all organisms. "Essentials of Glycobiology" describes their biogenesis and function and offers a useful gateway to the understanding of glycans.

Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc

Download Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc PDF Online Free

Author : Institute of Medicine
Publisher : National Academies Press
ISBN 13 : 9780309072793
Total Pages : 804 pages
Book Rating : 4.0/5 (727 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc by : Institute of Medicine

Download or read book Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Arsenic, Boron, Chromium, Copper, Iodine, Iron, Manganese, Molybdenum, Nickel, Silicon, Vanadium, and Zinc written by Institute of Medicine and published by National Academies Press. This book was released on 2002-07-19 with total page 804 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This volume is the newest release in the authoritative series issued by the National Academy of Sciences on dietary reference intakes (DRIs). This series provides recommended intakes, such as Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs), for use in planning nutritionally adequate diets for individuals based on age and gender. In addition, a new reference intake, the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL), has also been established to assist an individual in knowing how much is "too much" of a nutrient. Based on the Institute of Medicine's review of the scientific literature regarding dietary micronutrients, recommendations have been formulated regarding vitamins A and K, iron, iodine, chromium, copper, manganese, molybdenum, zinc, and other potentially beneficial trace elements such as boron to determine the roles, if any, they play in health. The book also: Reviews selected components of food that may influence the bioavailability of these compounds. Develops estimates of dietary intake of these compounds that are compatible with good nutrition throughout the life span and that may decrease risk of chronic disease where data indicate they play a role. Determines Tolerable Upper Intake levels for each nutrient reviewed where adequate scientific data are available in specific population subgroups. Identifies research needed to improve knowledge of the role of these micronutrients in human health. This book will be important to professionals in nutrition research and education.

Chondroitin Sulfate

Author :
Publisher : Elsevier
ISBN 13 : 0080471951
Total Pages : 596 pages
Book Rating : 4.0/5 (84 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Chondroitin Sulfate by :

Download or read book Chondroitin Sulfate written by and published by Elsevier. This book was released on 2006-06-28 with total page 596 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: CS is an unbranched, polydisperse, complex glycosaminoglycan extracted and purified from various tissues. This polyanion is interacting with both plasma and cells, it is able to modulate many biochemical and physiologic processes. Due to the presence of sulfate groups in different amounts and located in various positions, CS represents a very heterogeneous family of polysaccharides. therefore, the preparative approach and the analytical techniques are of paramount importance to produce CS with specific structure and properties and of pharmaceutical grade.*Includes recent technologies and methodologies to study and understand the structure and properties of chondroitin sulfate (CS)*Authoritative contributors from the scientific community with expertise in the field of CS and complex polysaccharides*Detailed and accurate figures to describe and illustrate complex molecular and macromolecular structures and properties

Pain in Osteoarthritis

Author : David T. Felson
Publisher : John Wiley & Sons
ISBN 13 : 9780470930557
Total Pages : 320 pages
Book Rating : 4.9/5 (35 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Pain in Osteoarthritis by : David T. Felson

Download or read book Pain in Osteoarthritis written by David T. Felson and published by John Wiley & Sons. This book was released on 2010-08-03 with total page 320 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: An authoritative investigation of the sources andtreatment of osteoarthritic joint pain Millions of people throughout the world suffer from osteoarthritis (OA)—a medical condition causing its sufferers excruciating pain that is often disabling. This is the first book to offer clinicians an in-depth understanding of the biological sources of osteoarthritic pain and how they can be treated. Here, a team of leading international authorities has contributed state-of-the-art information on: The Neuroscience of Articular Pain—spinal and peripheral mechanisms of joint pain; experimental models for the study of osteoarthritic pain; inflammatory mediators and nociception in arthritis; phantoms in rheumatology; and more Osteoarthritis and Pain—joint mechanisms and neuromuscular aspects of OA; bone pain and pressure in OA joints; structural correlates of OA pain; and more Treatment of Osteoarthritic Pain—general approaches to treatment; treatments targeting pain receptors; treatments targeting biomechanical abnormalities; and treatments targeting inflammation Whether you're a medical professional, researcher, student, or a generalist or specialist focusing on pain or arthritis, this is your one-stop reference for understanding and treating joint pain in osteoarthritis.

Chemistry and Biology of Heparin and Heparan Sulfate

Author : Hari G. Garg
Publisher : Elsevier
ISBN 13 : 0080529054
Total Pages : 793 pages
Book Rating : 4.0/5 (85 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Chemistry and Biology of Heparin and Heparan Sulfate by : Hari G. Garg

Download or read book Chemistry and Biology of Heparin and Heparan Sulfate written by Hari G. Garg and published by Elsevier. This book was released on 2011-10-10 with total page 793 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The chemistry, biochemistry and pharmacology of heparin and heparan sulfate have been and continue to be a major scientific undertaking - heparin and its derivative remain important drugs in clinical practice. Chemistry and Biology of Heparin and Heparan Sulfate provides readers with an insight into the chemistry, biology and clinical applications of heparin and heparan sulfate and examines their function in various physiological and pathological conditions. Providing a wealth of useful information, no other tome covers the diversity of topics in the field. Students, doctors, chemists, biochemists, and research scientists will find this book an invaluable source for updating their current knowledge of developments in this area. - Comprehensively reviews all aspects of heparin and heparan sulfate research - Uniquely describes the chemistry, biology and clinical application of heparins and heparan sulfates in one work - Provides an invaluable source of knowledge of current developments for chemists, biochemists, medical doctors, researchers, students and practitioners

Rheumatology and Immunology Therapy

Author : Larry W. Moreland
Publisher : Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN 13 : 3540206256
Total Pages : 933 pages
Book Rating : 4.5/5 (42 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Rheumatology and Immunology Therapy by : Larry W. Moreland

Download or read book Rheumatology and Immunology Therapy written by Larry W. Moreland and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2004-07-20 with total page 933 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Entries in a practical A to Z Format Highly therapy-focused Uniform and clearly arranged entries for ease of reference Comprehensive information on symptoms and therapeutical possibilities of rheumatologic and musculoskeletal diseases as well as drugs Written by leading experts in the field

Glycosaminoglycans and Proteoglycans

Author : 978-3-03842-836-7
Publisher : MDPI
ISBN 13 : 3038428353
Total Pages : 247 pages
Book Rating : 4.0/5 (384 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Glycosaminoglycans and Proteoglycans by : 978-3-03842-836-7

Download or read book Glycosaminoglycans and Proteoglycans written by 978-3-03842-836-7 and published by MDPI. This book was released on 2018-07-04 with total page 247 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This book is a printed edition of the Special Issue "Glycosaminoglycans and Proteoglycans" that was published in Pharmaceuticals

Extracellular Sugar-Based Biopolymers Matrices

Author : Ephraim Cohen
Publisher : Springer
ISBN 13 : 3030129195
Total Pages : 822 pages
Book Rating : 4.0/5 (31 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Extracellular Sugar-Based Biopolymers Matrices by : Ephraim Cohen

Download or read book Extracellular Sugar-Based Biopolymers Matrices written by Ephraim Cohen and published by Springer. This book was released on 2019-07-02 with total page 822 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The extracellular matrix (ECM) is an acellular three-dimensional network composed of proteins, glycoproteins, proteoglycans and exopolysaccharides. It primarily serves as a structural component in the tissues and organs of plants and animals, or forms biofilms in which bacterial cells are embedded. ECMs are highly dynamic structures that undergo continuous remodeling, and disruptions are frequently the result of pathological processes associated with severe diseases such as arteriosclerosis, neurodegenerative illness or cancer. In turn, bacterial biofilms are a source of concern for human health, as they are associated with resistance to antibiotics. Although exopolysaccharides are crucial for ECM formation and function, they have received considerably little attention to date. The respective chapters of this book comprehensively address such issues, and provide reviews on the structural, biochemical, molecular and biophysical properties of exopolysaccharides. These components are abundantly produced by virtually all taxa including bacteria, algae, plants, fungi, invertebrates and vertebrates. They include long unbranched homopolymers (cellulose, chitin/chitosan), linear copolymers (alginate, agarose), peptoglycans such as murein, heteropolymers like a variety of glycosaminoglycans (hyaluronan, dermatan, keratin, heparin, Pel), and branched heteropolymers such as pectin and hemicellulose. A separate chapter is dedicated to modern industrial and biomedical applications of exopolysaccharides and polysaccharide-based biocomposites. Their unique chemical, physical and mechanical properties have attracted considerable interest, inspired basic and applied research, and have already been harnessed to form structural biocomposite hybrids for tailor-made applications in regenerative medicine, bioengineering and biosensor design. Given its scope, this book provides a substantial source of basic and applied information for a wide range of scientists, as well as valuable textbook for graduate and advanced undergraduate students.

Biology and Engineering of Stem Cell Niches

Author : Ajaykumar Vishwakarma
Publisher : Academic Press
ISBN 13 : 0128027568
Total Pages : 644 pages
Book Rating : 4.1/5 (28 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Biology and Engineering of Stem Cell Niches by : Ajaykumar Vishwakarma

Download or read book Biology and Engineering of Stem Cell Niches written by Ajaykumar Vishwakarma and published by Academic Press. This book was released on 2017-03-22 with total page 644 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Biology and Engineering of Stem Cell Niches covers a wide spectrum of research and current knowledge on embryonic and adult stem cell niches, focusing on the understanding of stem cell niche molecules and signaling mechanisms, including cell-cell/cell-matrix interactions. The book comprehensively reviews factors regulating stem cell behavior and the corresponding approaches for understanding the subsequent effect of providing the proper matrix molecules, mechanical cues, and/or chemical cues. It encompasses a variety of tools and techniques for developing biomaterials-based methods to model synthetic stem cell niches in vivo, or to enhance and direct stem cell fate in vitro. A final section of the book discusses stem cell niche bioengineering strategies and current advances in each tissue type. - Includes the importance of Cell-Cell and Cell Matrix Interactions in each specific tissue and system - Authored and edited by authorities in this emerging and multidisciplinary field - Includes valuable links to 5-10 minute YouTube© author videos that describe main points

Natural and Synthetic Biomedical Polymers

Author : Sangamesh G. Kum bar
Publisher : Newnes
ISBN 13 : 0123972906
Total Pages : 421 pages
Book Rating : 4.1/5 (239 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Natural and Synthetic Biomedical Polymers by : Sangamesh G. Kum bar

Download or read book Natural and Synthetic Biomedical Polymers written by Sangamesh G. Kum bar and published by Newnes. This book was released on 2014-01-21 with total page 421 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Polymers are important and attractive biomaterials for researchers and clinical applications due to the ease of tailoring their chemical, physical and biological properties for target devices. Due to this versatility they are rapidly replacing other classes of biomaterials such as ceramics or metals. As a result, the demand for biomedical polymers has grown exponentially and supports a diverse and highly monetized research community. Currently worth $1.2bn in 2009 (up from $650m in 2000), biomedical polymers are expected to achieve a CAGR of 9.8% until 2015, supporting a current research community of approximately 28,000+. Summarizing the main advances in biopolymer development of the last decades, this work systematically covers both the physical science and biomedical engineering of the multidisciplinary field. Coverage extends across synthesis, characterization, design consideration and biomedical applications. The work supports scientists researching the formulation of novel polymers with desirable physical, chemical, biological, biomechanical and degradation properties for specific targeted biomedical applications. - Combines chemistry, biology and engineering for expert and appropriate integration of design and engineering of polymeric biomaterials - Physical, chemical, biological, biomechanical and degradation properties alongside currently deployed clinical applications of specific biomaterials aids use as single source reference on field. - 15+ case studies provides in-depth analysis of currently used polymeric biomaterials, aiding design considerations for the future

Proteoglycan Protocols

Author : Renato V. Iozzo
Publisher : Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN 13 : 1592592090
Total Pages : 547 pages
Book Rating : 4.5/5 (925 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Proteoglycan Protocols by : Renato V. Iozzo

Download or read book Proteoglycan Protocols written by Renato V. Iozzo and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2008-02-02 with total page 547 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Proteoglycans are some of the most elaborate macromolecules of mammalian and lower organisms. The covalent attachment of at least five types of glycosami- glycan side chains to more than forty individual protein cores makes these molecules quite complex and endows them with a multitude of biological functions. Proteoglycan Protocols offers a comprehensive and up-to-date collection of prepa- tive and analytical methods for the in-depth analysis of proteoglycans. Featuring st- by-step detailed protocols, this book will enable both novice and experienced researchers to isolate intact proteoglycans from tissues and cultured cells, to establish the composition of their carbohydrate moieties, to generate strategies for prokaryotic and eukaryotic expression, to utilize methods for the suppression of specific proteoglycan gene expression and for the detection of mutant cells and degradation products, and to study specific interactions between proteoglycans and extracellular matrix proteins as well as growth factors and their receptors. The readers will find concise, yet comprehensive techniques carefully drafted by leading experts in the field. Each chapter commences with a general Introduction, followed by a detailed Materials section, and an easy-to-follow Methods section. An asset of each chapter is the extensive notation that includes troubleshooting tips and practical considerations that are often lacking in formal methodology papers. The reader will find this section most valuable because it is clearly provided by experienced scientists who have first-hand knowledge of the techniques they outline. In addition, most of the chapters are well illustrated with examples of typical data generated with each method.

Osteoarthritis E-Book

Author : Leena Sharma
Publisher : Elsevier Health Sciences
ISBN 13 : 0323070647
Total Pages : 305 pages
Book Rating : 4.3/5 (23 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Osteoarthritis E-Book by : Leena Sharma

Download or read book Osteoarthritis E-Book written by Leena Sharma and published by Elsevier Health Sciences. This book was released on 2007-07-04 with total page 305 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This new companion to Hochberg et al.'s Rheumatology masterwork presents current insights into the causes, detection, and therapy of this condition. It provides "one-stop" coverage of scientific and clinical developments, including new concepts in epidemiology and genetics and pathogenic mechanisms · new developments in diagnostic interventions and prevention · and the very latest concepts in treatment. - Features the work of leading experts in osteoarthritis. - Presents current diagnostic criteria and knowledge of pathogenic mechanisms. - Discusses the very latest advances in treatment, including pharmacologic interventions. - Provides new concepts in epidemiology and genetics of osteoarthritis, including modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors.

Maximizing the Arthritis Cure

Author : Jason Theodosakis
Publisher : Macmillan
ISBN 13 : 9780312969165
Total Pages : 324 pages
Book Rating : 4.9/5 (691 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Maximizing the Arthritis Cure by : Jason Theodosakis

Download or read book Maximizing the Arthritis Cure written by Jason Theodosakis and published by Macmillan. This book was released on 1999-01-15 with total page 324 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Including information on new research, menu plans, strength training programs, exercises, new arthritis remedies, and much, much more, this helpful guide takes the revolutionary ideas of "The Arthritis Cure" and maximizes them. Martin's Press.

Analytical Pyrolysis of Natural Organic Polymers

Author : S.C. Moldoveanu
Publisher : Elsevier
ISBN 13 : 0080527167
Total Pages : 509 pages
Book Rating : 4.0/5 (85 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Analytical Pyrolysis of Natural Organic Polymers by : S.C. Moldoveanu

Download or read book Analytical Pyrolysis of Natural Organic Polymers written by S.C. Moldoveanu and published by Elsevier. This book was released on 1998-11-11 with total page 509 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Analytical pyrolysis is one of the many tools utilized for the study of natural organic polymers. This books describes in three parts the methodology of analytical pyrolysis, the results of pyrolysis for a variety of biopolymers, and several practical applications of analytical pyrolysis on natural organic polymers and their composite materials. Analytical pyrolysis methodology covers two distinct subjects, the instrumentation used for pyrolysis and the analytical methods that are applied for the analysis of the pyrolysis products. A variety of pyrolytic techniques and of analytical instruments commonly coupled with pyrolysis devices are given.The description of the results of pyrolysis for biopolymers and some chemically modified natural organic polymers is the core of the book. The main pyrolysis products of numerous compounds as well as the proposed mechanisms for their pyrolysis are described. In this part an attempt is made to present as much as possible the chemistry of the pyrolytic process of natural organic polymers.The applications of analytical pyrolysis include topics such as polymer detection used for example in forensic science, structure elucidation of specific polymers, and identification of small molecules present in polymers (anti-oxidants, plasticizers, etc.). Also, the degradation during heating is a subject of major interest in many practical applications regarding the physical properties of polymers. The applications to composite polymeric materials are in the fields of classification of microorganisms, study of a variety of biological samples, study of fossil materials, etc. Analytical pyrolysis can also be used for obtaining information on the burning area generate pyrolysates that have complex compositions. Their analysis is important in connection with health issues, environmental problems, and taste of food and cigarettes.Features of this book:• Presents analytical pyrolysis as a uniform subject and not as a conglomerate of scientific papers.• Puts together in an organized manner a large volume of available information in this specific field.• Provides original results which address subjects with relatively scarce information in literature.• Gives original views on subjects such as the parallel between the pyrolytic process and the ion fragmentation in mass spectrometry.• Includes the role of pyrolysis in the burning process.The three parts of the book are covered in 18 chapters, each divided into sections. Some sections are further divided by particular subjects. References are given for each chapter, and an effort has been made to include as much as possible from the available representative information. A few unpublished personal results are also included.

Breastfeeding and Medication

Author : Wendy Jones
Publisher : Routledge
ISBN 13 : 135158099X
Total Pages : 536 pages
Book Rating : 4.3/5 (515 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Breastfeeding and Medication by : Wendy Jones

Download or read book Breastfeeding and Medication written by Wendy Jones and published by Routledge. This book was released on 2018-05-11 with total page 536 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Sadly, women often feel they have no alternative but to give up breastfeeding, having been prescribed or purchased medication. In many cases, however, this is unnecessary. This book outlines the evidence base for the use of medication during breastfeeding. Breastfeeding and Medication presents a comprehensive A to Z guide to the most frequently prescribed drugs and their safety for breastfeeding mothers. Evaluating the evidence for interventions and using a simple format for quickly identifying medications that are safe or unsafe to use, it also highlights those drugs where there is inconclusive evidence. Additional contextual information makes this the most complete text for those practitioners who support and treat breastfeeding women. It: provides an overview of the anatomy and physiology of the breast together with hormonal influences to better understand how complications, such as mastitis, arise and inform the approach to their treatment; includes a section on conditions that affect women specifically when they are lactating where prescription of medication may be necessary; discusses the importance of breastfeeding and its advantages, as well as its disadvantages; and explores how to support breastfeeding mothers, and presents a counselling model approach. This new edition contains information on more drugs and a chapter on the management of some chronic conditions which may affect breastfeeding mothers. In most cases there are options to support the mother’s optimal care whilst allowing her to continue to breastfeed her baby as long as she wishes. This is a topic which raises many questions on social media, which informed the choice of conditions to consider. This is an invaluable reference for all health practitioners and volunteers who work with, support and treat breastfeeding women, including lactation consultants, breastfeeding support workers, health visitors, GPs, practice nurses, pharmacists and midwives.

Heparin - A Century of Progress

Author : Rebecca Lever
Publisher : Springer Science & Business Media
ISBN 13 : 3642230563
Total Pages : 457 pages
Book Rating : 4.6/5 (422 download)

DOWNLOAD NOW!

Book Synopsis Heparin - A Century of Progress by : Rebecca Lever

Download or read book Heparin - A Century of Progress written by Rebecca Lever and published by Springer Science & Business Media. This book was released on 2012-05-08 with total page 457 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Heparins remain amongst the most commonly used drugs in clinical practice. Almost 100 years have passed since the initial discovery of this complex substance and, during this time, understanding of the nature and uses of heparin and related molecules has grown dramatically. The aim of this volume is to summarise the developments that have led to the current status of both heparins as drugs and the field of heparin research, with a focus on the particularly rapid progress that has been made over the past three decades. Individual sections are dedicated to the nature of heparin as a biological molecule, the current approaches and techniques that are used to ensure the safety and reliability of heparin as a medicine, the clinical pharmacology of heparin as an anticoagulant drug, effects and potential applications of heparin aside of those involving haemostasis and, finally, the nature and potential uses of heparin-like materials from both natural and synthetic sources.