Main description:

Carotenoids are of great interest due to their essential biological functions in both plants and animals. However, the properties and functions of carotenoids in natural systems are surprisingly complex. With an emphasis on the chemical aspects of these compounds, Carotenoids: Physical, Chemical, and Biological Functions and Properties presents a broad overview and recent developments with respect to understanding carotenoid structure, electronic and photochemical properties, and the use of novel analytical methods in the detection and characterization of carotenoids and their actions. The text also explores LC/MS and LC/MS/MS techniques as well as new applications of PCR and molecular biology methodologies.

Contents:

The Structural Properties, Characteristics, and Interatcions of the Carotenoids. Analytical Methodologies for Measurement of Carotenoids. Applications of Spectroscopic Methodologies to Carotenoid Systems. Chemical Breakdown of Carotenoids In Vitro and In Vivo. Antioxidant and Photoprotection Function/Reactions involving Singlet Oxygen and Reactive Oxygen Species. Cell Culture Methods Applied to Understanding Carotenoid Recognition and Action. The Chemistry and Biochemistry of ss-Carotene Oxidases. Carotenoids and Cell Regulation: The Mechanistic Connection to Cancer. Carotenoids and Carotenoid Biochemistry in Animal Systems.