DNA Structure and Function - by Richard R Sinden (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

DNA Structure and Function, a timely and comprehensive resource, is intended for any student or scientist interested in DNA structure and its biological implications. The book provides a simple yet comprehensive introduction to nearly all aspects of DNA structure. It also explains current ideas on the biological significance of classic and alternative DNA conformations. Suitable for graduate courses on DNA structure and nucleic acids, the text is also excellent supplemental reading for courses in general biochemistry, molecular biology, and genetics.

From the Back Cover

DNA Structure and Function, a timely and comprehensive resource, is intended for any student or scientist interested in DNA structure and its biological implications. This book provides a simple yet comprehensive introduction to nearly all aspects of DNA structure. It also explains current ideas on the biological significance of classic and alternative DNA conformations. Suitable for graduate courses on DNA structure and nucleic acids, the text is also excellent supplemental reading for courses in general biochemistry, molecular biology, and genetics.

Review Quotes

"Well written, authoritative, organized and comprehensive coverage of a rapidly developing subject. It is a very impressive compilation and one which will be useful to a wide audience. The book introduces the reader to the complex mosaic of DNA architecture-the A, B, H, Z, supercoiled, and the cruciform structures of DNA. The interconversion of these structures, together with the interaction with sequence and/or structure specific proteins provides the basis for the delicate orchestration of the flow of the genetic message within the cell. In vitro, [as well as] in vivo experiments are presented. The DNA structural findings lead one into the specific relevance of these forms in the vital functional processes-replication, transcription, genetic recombination and DNA repair-which are at the cutting-edge of research in today's leading labs. All in all, an excellent job of bringing together a multitude of diverse topics on DNA and packaging them nicely in a comprehensive, readable volume." --WILLIAM M. SCOVELL, Professor of Chemistry, Bowling Green State University

"Richard Sinden, a leader in the study of nucleic acid structure, has crafted an outstanding treatment of DNA structure and function. I found this work, particularly the excellent illustrations, very useful for preparing lectures on aspects of DNA structure that are not a part of my daily work. After reviewing an early version, I insisted that Sinden keep me supplied with the latest revision so I would have easy access to the information. In summary, I consider Sinden's book required reading for any graduate student interested in how DNA works." --KARL DRLICA, The Public Health Research Institute, New York, New York

"Richard Sinden has consolidated the newer information necessary to understand DNA function beyond the notion that it simply encodes information by its linear sequence. Here, in one place, Z-DNA, bending, supercoiling, triplex formation, the more esoteric matters of four-strand and parallel strand DNA, as well as other rarer forms, are described at a level accessible to advanced undergraduates and graduate students. The book focuses on DNA structures and conformations, but also treats the role of these DNA forms in protein-DNA interactions and chromosome structure. The book provides a solid introduction to these topics and will serve as a useful tool for investigators as well as students." --RICHARD I. GUMPORT, University of Illinois, Urbana

"Excellent work on an interesting subject. Recommended." --D. CARMICHAEL, Pittsburgh State University (CHOICE)

"DNA Structure and Function leads the reader from the early models of the double helix, through curvature, supercoiling, cruciforms, Z-DNA and triplex DNA to the more esoteric alternative conformations of 1995. It is quite a journey, and Richard Sinden is an informed and entertaining guide... This book provides a clear account of the basic principles of DNA chemistry and structure. The discussion of these issues would be useful for any introductory course in genetics or biochemistry... DNA is hereto stay. Buy a copy of this book to find out what DNA can do, and also what DNA might do for you." --TRENDS IN BIOCHEMICAL SCIENCES