Advances in Protein Chemistry

Abstract

FEW would deny that protein chemistry, in all its aspects, is one of the most important branches of biochemistry. Not only do the proteins constitute a unique group of related compounds containing numerous types and perhaps an infinity of individuals but also their functions are many and diverse, each type appearing to be adapted to one particular function. They form, for example, hormones, antibodies, genes and, either alone or in association with prosthetic groups, enzymes and respiratory pigments. The proteins clearly offer for investigation a wide field and a multitude of problems, the complete solution of which would probably yield the key to the elucidation of the nature of living matter. On these grounds we welcome this, the first of a series of volumes to be devoted exclusively to advances in protein chemistry. Nevertheless, when we reflect that there already exists an extensive review literature or biochemistry and related subjects, and that much of protein chemistry is inseparable from other branches of biochemistry, we foresee some danger of a considerable duplication of subjects in the various reviews. That such a danger exists is, indeed, apparent from the present volume, which contains several articles dealing with topics which have recently been reviewed elsewhere. Advances in Protein Chemistry Edited by M. L. Anson John T. Edsall. Vol. 1. Pp. xi + 341. (New York: Academic Press, Inc.; London: H. K. Lewis and Co., Ltd., 1944.) 5.50 dollars.