Microtubules
By: Pierre Dustin
About This Book
The decision, in 1975, to write alone a monograph on micro tubules was not without risks. While I was familiar from its start in Brussels in 1934 with the work on col chicine and other mitotic poisons, the literature on microtubules was, 8 years ago, already increasing at an impressive rate. However, this monograph, which, contrary to other works on microtubules, tried to cover the whole field of research, from the fundamentals of the tubulin molecule and the possible role of these organelles in some aspects of human pathology, to some medical applications of microtubule poisons, has been accepted as a useful tool for workers in these fields. Since 1976, (date of the last references mentioned in the monograph) until the middle of 1983, papers on microtubule research have literally been pouring in, at the rate of several hundred a year. This may justify a second edition, although the considerable difficulties in keeping the size of the book within the same limits while not forgetting to mention some important work, could not be overlooked. The need for an entirely revised and rewritten edition prompted this new venture and was possible with the help of the considerable amount of reprints kindly sent to me day after day over the years. This work would have been unthinkable if the author had not maintained the same enthusiasm for microtubule research, which has been disclosing new facts every day.
AI Overview
The book "Microtubules" by Pierre Dustin is a comprehensive monograph on the structure, function, and biology of microtubules. Here is a detailed overview of the book:
Key Themes
- Historical Background: The book begins with a historical overview of microtubules, tracing their discovery and early research developments.
- Structure and Chemistry: It delves into the general morphology and structure of microtubules, as well as their biochemistry and associated proteins.
- Assembly and Disassembly: The book discusses the assembly and disassembly processes of microtubules in vitro, highlighting the regulatory mechanisms involved.
- General Physiology: It explores the synthesis and regulation of tubulin, the protein that makes up microtubules, and their assembly in vivo. It also examines their interactions with other cell structures and organelles.
- Complex Microtubule Assemblies: The book covers complex microtubule assemblies such as axonemes, centrioles, basal bodies, cilia, and flagella, providing detailed descriptions of their structures and functions.
Plot Summary
The book is structured into several chapters that provide a systematic approach to understanding microtubules:
- Introduction and Historical Background: Sets the stage for the study of microtubules by providing a historical context.
- Structure and Chemistry of Microtubules: Explores the morphological and biochemical aspects of microtubules.
- General Physiology of Tubulins and Microtubules: Discusses the synthesis, regulation, and assembly of tubulin in cells.
- Complex Microtubule Assemblies: Examines specific types of microtubule-based structures found in cells, such as axonemes and centrioles.
Critical Reception
While specific reviews are not readily available, the book's comprehensive nature and detailed coverage of microtubules suggest it has been well-received by the scientific community. The fact that it has been reprinted multiple times indicates its enduring relevance and utility in the field of cell biology.
Editions and Publication Details
- Publication Date: The book was originally published in 1978, with a second edition released in 1984. The softcover reprint of the second edition was published in 2011 by Springer Berlin Heidelberg.
- ISBN-13: 9783642696541.
- Pages: 484 pages.
Overall, "Microtubules" by Pierre Dustin is a seminal work in the field of cell biology, offering a thorough examination of microtubules and their roles in cellular processes. Its detailed structure and comprehensive coverage make it a valuable resource for researchers and students in the field.