Main description:

The Carotenoids book series provides an introduction to the fundamental chemistry, detailed accounts of the basic methods used in carotenoid research, and critical discussions of the biochemistry, functions and applications of carotenoids. Part 1 discusses the fundamental properties on which the biological functions and effects of carotenoids depend. Part 2 describes important natural functions of carotenoids in all kinds of living organisms.

Contents:

Special Molecules, Special Properties.- Structure and Chirality.- E/Z Isomers and Isomerization.- Three-dimensional Structures of Carotenoids by X-ray Crystallography.- Aggregation and Interface Behaviour of Carotenoids.- Carotenoid-Protein Interactions.- Carotenoid Radicals and Radical Ions.- Structure and Properties of Carotenoid Cations.- Excited Electronic States, Photochemistry and Photophysics of Carotenoids.- Functions of Intact Carotenoids.- Signal Functions of Carotenoid Colouration.- Carotenoids in Aquaculture: Fish and Crustaceans.- Xanthophylls in Poultry Feeding.- Carotenoids in Photosynthesis.- Functions of Carotenoid Metabolites and Breakdown Products.- Cleavage of ?-Carotene to Retinal.- Enzymic Pathways for Formation of Carotenoid Cleavage Products.