Authors: Joseph Z. Zaretsky, Daniel H. Wreschner

Series Title: Mucins – Potential Regulators of Cell Functions

Gel-Forming and Soluble Mucins

Volume 1

eBook: US $39 Special Offer (PDF + Printed Copy): US $162
Printed Copy: US $142
Library License: US $156
ISSN: 2589-2983 (Print)
ISSN: 2214-0824 (Online)
ISBN: 978-1-60805-516-6 (Print)
ISBN: 978-1-60805-454-1 (Online)
Year of Publication: 2013
DOI: 10.2174/97816080545411130101

Introduction

Mucins are glycoproteins that are expressed in cells of different types and fulfill multiple functions that determine participation of these proteins in such processes as signal transduction, regulation of gene expression, cell proliferation, embryogenesis, cell differentiation, immunity, apoptosis and cancer development. This E-book series on mucins presents critical reviews on modern data concerning structures and functions of mucins, their roles in cell physiology and pathology as well as molecular aspects of therapy of mucin-associated diseases. Mucins are represented by two types of molecules: secreted mucins and membrane-bound (receptor) mucins. This e-book series represents a unique attempt to describe the molecular nature of mucin multifunctionality in separate volumes. Chapters in each volume demonstrate the central role of mucins as connectors and regulators of different signaling pathways and their participation metastatic processes. Clinical aspects of mucins, such as their role as diagnostic markers as well as possible applications in mucin-based immuno- and gene-therapies are also discussed.

This is the first volume of the series. This volume introduces readers to the general properties of mucins, followed by chapters on specific variants of gel-forming and soluble mucins. The volume concludes with information on the functions of secreted mucins.

Foreword

It is a great pleasure to write the Foreword for the manuscript “Mucins – potential regulators of cell functions” prepared by internationally known scientists Drs. Joseph Z. Zaretsky and Daniel H. Wreschner. It is a very comprehensive publication providing an excellent insight into the properties and functions of mucin glycopoteins. In recent years, major breakthroughs have taken place in the field. Significant progress has been made in understanding of structure and biosynthesis of mucins as well as in prediction and identification of their functions. Although a lot of literature is available that covers various aspects of mucin studies, there is an obvious requirement for a complete comprehensive analysis of recently obtained data which could change previous knowledge of the biological role of mucins. Such book is indeed the need of the hour. The book covers not only general concepts but also presents details which help to understand the role of mucins in human development, cell differentiation and defense, innate immunity and regulation of cell functions. The authors have taken efforts to focus attention on basic as well as advanced aspects of the research of secreted mucins. All aspects of the mucin problems are presented in a straightforward fashion, with insightful sifting and appraisal of evidences, and in a logical and scientific manner that would help beginners and experts alike to enjoy reading and simplify understanding. The book would be very useful not only for the “muciners”, as Isabelle Van Seunengen called researches studying mucins, but also for biologists working in adjacent sections of the life sciences. It is useful as a handbook containing comprehensive information on structure and properties of both gel-forming and soluble mucins. It would serve also as an excellent reference book for students and investigators interested in molecular biology, biochemistry, immunology, genetics, embryology, histology and clinical medicine. I strongly recommend the book to students and researchers studying the rapidly progressing branch of modern biology - “mucinology”. I am confident that essential new ideas presented in the book would stimulate further studies in this important area.

Professor Roald Nezlin
Weizmann Institute of Science
Rehavot
Israel


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