The Biology of Hyaluronan


Book Description

Presents state-of-the-art applications in hyaluronan research, from hyaluronan's physicochemical properties to its clinical role as a connective tissue marker and its surgical implications, particularly in ear, eye and orthopaedic surgery. Covers hyaluronan's synthesis and catabolism, its role in cells, its interactions with specific binding proteins, and its role in the embryonic nervous system.




Nanomaterials for Cancer Therapy


Book Description

This first comprehensive overview on nanotechnological approaches to cancer therapy brings together therapeutic oncology and nanotechnology, showing the various strategic approaches to selectively eliminating cancerous cells without damaging the surrounding healthy tissue. The strategies covered include magnetic, optical, microwave and neutron absorption techniques, nanocapsules for active agents, nanoparticles as active agents, and active and passive targeting, while also dealing with fundamental aspects of how nanoparticles cross biological barriers. A valuable single source gathering the many articles published in specialized journals often difficult to locate for members of the other disciplines involved.




Functional Polysaccharides for Biomedical Applications


Book Description

Functional Polysaccharides for Biomedical Applications examines the fundamentals and properties of these natural materials and their potential biomedical applications. With an emphasis on therapeutic and sensing applications, the book also reviews how polysaccharides can be modified for tissue engineering applications. Sections discuss the basics of polysaccharides, give an overview of the potential applications, look at novel materials and technologies for use in tissue regeneration and therapeutics, and detail current biomedical applications. With a strong focus on materials, engineering and applications, this book is a valuable resource for those with an interest in harnessing the biomedical potential of natural polymers. - Describes strategies for developing polysaccharides-based biomedical devices - Illustrates concepts and encompasses scope for clinical development - Provides advanced and comprehensive information on biomedical constructs




Regenerative Nephrology


Book Description

Progression of chronic diseases in general and chronic kidney disease in particular has been traditionally viewed in the light of various contributors to development of glomerulosclerosis and tubulointerstitial scarring culminating in renal fibrosis. Indeed, this dogma prevailed for decades underscoring experimental attempts to halt fibrotic processes. Breakthrough investigations of the past few years on stem/progenitor cell involvement in organ regeneration caused a conceptual shift in tackling the mechanisms of nephrosclerosis. It has become clear that the rate of progression of chronic kidney disease is the net sum of the opposing trends: degenerative fibrotic processes and regenerative repair mechanisms. The latter part of this equation has been by and large ignored for years and only recently attracted investigative attention. This book revisits the problem of kidney disease by focusing on regenerative mechanisms in renal repair and on the ways these regenerative processes can become subverted by an intrinsic disease process eventuating in its progression. Cutting-edge investigations are summarized by the most experienced international team of experts. - Presents a comprehensive, translational source for all aspects of renal stem cells, tissue regeneration, and stem cell therapies for renal diseases in one reference work. This will ultimately result in time savings for academic, medical and pharma researchers - Experts in the renal stem cell system in kidney repair and regeneration take readers from the bench research to new therapeutic approaches, providing a common language for nephrology researchers, fellows and other stem cell researchers. This enables the discussion of development of stem cells and their use in the repair and regeneration of the kidney




Biomedical Applications of Polymeric Materials and Composites


Book Description

With its content taken from only the very latest results, this is an extensive summary of the various polymeric materials used for biomedical applications. Following an introduction listing various functional polymers, including conductive, biocompatible and conjugated polymers, the book goes on to discuss different synthetic polymers that can be used, for example, as hydrogels, biochemical sensors, functional surfaces, and natural degradable materials. Throughout, the focus is on applications, with worked examples for training purposes as well as case studies included. The whole is rounded off with a look at future trends.




Biomaterial Science


Book Description

This books bridges the gap between a clinician's knowledge and the biomaterial designer's by elucidating upon the different biomaterials used in anatomical systems and how those materials react to the human body. It explores established and future prospectives of biomaterial types/designs, considerations/characterization and synthesis, in order to guide students in understanding the relations of material science and the human body.




Biochemistry of Collagens, Laminins and Elastin


Book Description

Biochemistry of Collagens, Laminins, and Elastin: Structure, Function, and Biomarkers provides a comprehensive introduction to collagen and structural proteins. Type I collagen is one of the most abundant molecules in the body, playing essential roles in different tissues, particularly bone and skin. A key aspect of type I collagen is its post-translational modifications which are essential for correct synthesis and structural integrity of collagens, for tissue-specific functionality, as well as for application as biomarkers of different pathologies. This volume summarizes current data on key structural proteins (collagens, laminins and elastin), reviews how these molecules affect pathologies, and describes selected modifications of proteins that result in altered signaling properties of the original extracellular matrix component. Further, it discusses the novel concept that an increasing number of components of the ECM harbor cryptic signaling functions that may be viewed as endocrine functions. Additionally, it highlights how this knowledge can be exploited to modulate fibrotic disease. - Provides a comprehensive introduction to collagen and structural proteins - Provides insight into emerging analytical technologies that can detect biomarkers of extracellular matrix degradation - Includes a chapter dedicated to the biomarkers of structural proteins - Contains insights into the biochemical interactions and changes to structural composition of proteins in disease states




Biomedical Applications of Hydrogels Handbook


Book Description

Hydrogels are networks of polymer chains which can produce a colloidal gel containing over 99 per cent water. The superabsorbency and permeability of naturally occurring and synthetic hydrogels give this class of materials an amazing array of uses. These uses range from wound dressings and skin grafts to oxygen-permeable contact lenses to biodegradable delivery systems for drugs or pesticides and scaffolds for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Biomedical Applications of Hydrogels Handbook provides a comprehensive description of this diverse class of materials, covering both synthesis and properties and a broad range of research and commercial applications. The Handbook is divided into four sections: Stimuli-Sensitive Hydrogels, Hydrogels for Drug Delivery, Hydrogels for Tissue Engineering, and Hydrogels with Unique Properties. Key Features: Provides comprehensive coverage of the basic science and applications of a diverse class of materials Includes both naturally occurring and synthetic hydrogels Edited and written by world leaders in the field.




Natural Polysaccharides in Drug Delivery and Biomedical Applications


Book Description

Natural Polysaccharides in Drug Delivery and Biomedical Applications provides a fundamental overview of natural polysaccharides, their sources, extraction methodologies, and characterizations. It covers specific natural polysaccharides and their effective application in drug delivery and biomedical use. Additionally, chapters in the book discuss key topics including the sources and extraction methodologies of natural polysaccharides, their role in tissue engineering applications, polysaccharide-based nanoparticles in biomedical applications, and their role in the delivery of anticancer drugs. Written by industry leaders and edited by experts, this book emphasizes recent advances made in the field.Natural Polysaccharides in Drug Delivery and Biomedical Applications provides academics, researchers, and pharmaceutical health care professionals with a comprehensive book on polysaccharides in pharmaceutical delivery process. - Provides fundamental concepts of natural polysaccharides as it applies to the pharmaceutical, biomedical, and biotechnology industries - Includes contributions from global leaders and experts from academia, industry, and regulatory agencies in the application of natural polysaccharides in pharmaceutical products and biomedical utilization - Offers practical examples, illustrations, chemical structures, and research case studies to help explain natural polysaccharides concepts in drug delivery and biomedical applications




Handbook of Biopolymer-Based Materials


Book Description

This first systematic scientific reference in the area of micro- and nanostructured biopolymer systems discusses in two volumes the morphology, structure, dynamics, properties and applications of all important biopolymers, as well as their blends, composites, interpenetrating networks and gels. Selected leading researchers from industry, academia, government and private research institutions around the globe comprehensively review recent accomplishments in the field. They examine the current state of the art, new challenges, and opportunities, discussing all the synthetic routes to the generation of both micro- and nano-morphologies, as well as the synthesis, characterization and application of porous biopolymers. An outstanding resource for anyone involved in the fi eld of eco-friendly biomaterials for advanced technologies.