Biochemistry and Molecular Biology provides the essential information necessary for students in the life and health sciences. The text assumes some background knowledge of chemistry from students who are taking their first university course in biochemistry and molecular biology. The book adopts a readable, student-friendly style that helps introduce students to this fascinating and often-times daunting subject. In order to face the avalanche of information available, the authors let students know what specific knowledge will be expected of them in their future classes and careers. To aid in alleviating confusion, the material is presented in a step-by-step manner that avoids giving information before it is relevant. The extensive use of cross-referencing makes it possible for students to return to individual sections for review purposes without difficulty. Whether students interests lie in biological, chemical, or medical aspects of biochemistry and molecular biology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology will help make students able, excited, and eager to read more widely and more deeply on this engaging subject. Offering a complete introduction to biochemistry and molecular biology, this important new text not only covers an extensive set of topics of current and special interest, but includes more traditional areas in biochemistry as well. There is an emphasis on biological aspects of biochemistry and new topics are introduced in their biological context wherever possible. Presenting core material on the structure of proteins and membranes, metabolism, and information storage and utilization, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology also surveys the immune system, viruses and viroids, and the disparate enzymatic protective mechanisms in the body. Areas of special importance such as metabolic regulation, cell-cell signaling, and control of gene expression are given appropriate emphasis in separate chapters.