Main description:

Currently, there are tremendous advances being made in understanding the basic science of both the structure and function of botulinum neurotoxins. This knowledge is opening up opportunities in regard to both therapeutic uses and treatment and protection options for civil and bio-defense applications. This volume fully evaluates the status of neurotoxin research and exploitation with a focus on clinical application. The book is a multi-authored collection of chapters written by the leading authorities responsible for the current scientific and clinical research that is advancing the understanding and exploitation of the neurotoxins and is both up to date and authoritative.

Contents:

Chapter 1: Overview and History of Botulinum Neurotoxin Research and Exploitation

Chapter 2: Pharmacology of Botulinum Neurotoxins

Chapter 3: Absorption and Transport of Botulinum Neurotoxins

Chapter 4: The Botulinum Neurotoxin Complex and the Role of Ancillary Proteins

Chapter 5: Neurotoxin Structure

Chapter 6: The Dual Receptor Recognition of Botulinum Neurotoxins

Chapter 7: Transloation, entry into the cell

Chapter 8: Protease Activity of the Botulinum Neurotoxins

Chapter 9: Molecular Basis for Persistence of Botulinum Neurotoxin

Chapter 10: Clostridium botulinum Genomes and Genetic Diversity

Chapter 11: Botulinum Neurotoxin Risks and Detection in Environment, Agriculture and Food Chains

Chapter 12: Botulism as a Disease of Humans

Chapter 13: Prevention and Treatment of Botulism