The Physiology and Biochemistry of Cestodes

by J. D. Smyth, D. P. McManus

Overview

This is an updated and expanded version of Professor Smyth's earlier work The Physiology of Cestodes (1969) which presented for the first time an overview of the physiology of these parasitic worms, many species of which cause serious, often fatal, diseases in man and domestic animals. Recent advances in investigative techniques, such as immunocytochemistry and in vitro culture, which have increased immensely our understanding of these organisms, are presented. The biochemical coverage has been expanded to include the spectacular advances in molecular biology in recent years. The book also shows how cestodes are increasingly being recognized as valuable models for transport and cell differentiation. Medical and veterinary students as well as students in parasitology and zoology will find this book an invaluable resource.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521038959
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	08/16/2007
Pages:	412
Product dimensions:	5.94(w) x 8.98(h) x 0.91(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; Acknowledgements; 1. The cestodes: general considerations; 2. The adult cestode: special structural features relevant to its physiology; 3. The adult cestode in its environment; 4. The adult: general metabolism and chemical composition; lipid metabolism; 5. The adult: carbohydrate metabolism; 6. The adult: proteins and nucleic acids; 7. The biology of the egg; 8. Developmental biology of larvae; 9. Development within definitive host; 10. Cultivation of cestodes in vitro; 11. Immunobiology of cestodes; References; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"...in the experienced hands of Smyth and McManus, the molecular biology and biochemistry of cestodes have been synthesized into meaningful and almost beautiful explanations of the basis of life of these parasites. I recommend this small volume to all biologists with even a passing interest in this group of highly adapted metazoans." The Quarterly Review of Biology

"...a compilation of information that has been reviewed insightfully with regard to its application to studies in the fields of enzymology, membrane transport and cellular differentiation, as well as parasitology." American Scientist

From the Publisher