About
the Book:
This textbook provides a
fresh, comprehensive and accessible introduction to the rapidly expanding field
of molecular pharmacology. Adopting a drug target-based, rather than the
traditional organ/system based, approach this innovative guide reflects the
current advances and research trend towards molecular based drug design,
derived from a detailed understanding of chemical responses in the body. Drugs
are then tailored to fit a treatment profile, rather than the traditional
method of ‘trial and error’ drug discovery which focuses on testing chemicals
on animals or cell cultures and matching their effects to treatments.
Providing an invaluable
resource for advanced under-graduate and MSc/PhD students, new researchers to
the field and practitioners for continuing professional
development, Molecular Pharmacology explores; recent advances and
developments in the four major human drug target families (G-protein coupled
receptors, ion channels, nuclear receptors and transporters), cloning of drug
targets, transgenic animal technology, gene therapy, pharmacogenomics and looks
at the role of calcium in the cell.
· Current - focuses on
cutting edge techniques and approaches, including new methods to quantify
biological activities in different systems and ways to interpret and understand
pharmacological data.
· Cutting Edge -
highlights advances in pharmacogenomics and explores how an individual’s
genetic makeup influences their response to therapeutic drugs and the potential
for harmful side effects.
· Applied - includes
numerous, real-world examples and a detailed case-study based chapter which
looks at current and possible future treatment strategies for cystic fibrosis.
This case study considers the relative merits of both drug therapy for specific
classes of mutation and gene therapy to correct the underlying defect.
Accessible - contains
a comprehensive glossary, suggestions for further reading at the end of each
chapter and an associated website that provides a complete set of figures from
within the book. |
