Astrid Sigel Bücher

Volume 2 focuses on the vibrant research area concerning nickel as well as its complexes and their role in Nature. With more than 2800 references and over 130 illustrations, it is an essential resource for scientists working in the wide range from inorganic biochemistry all the way through to medicine. In 17 stimulating chapters, written by 47 internationally recognized experts, Nickel and Its Surprising Impact in Nature highlights critically the biogeochemistry of nickel, its role in the environment, in plants and cyanobacteria, as well as for the gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori, for gene expression and carcinogenensis. In addition, it covers the complex-forming properties of nickel with amino acids, peptides, phosphates, nucleotides, and nucleic acids. The volume also provides sophisticated insights in the recent progress made in understanding the role of nickel in enzymes such as ureases, hydrogenases, superoxide dismutases, acireductone dioxygenases, acetyl-coenzyme A synthases, carbon monoxide dehydrogenases, methyl-coenzyme M reductases ... and it reveals the chaperones of nickel metabolism. The book opens with the biogeochemistry of this element and its release into the environment, which occurs from both natural and anthropogenic sources, whereby atmospheric distribution plays an important role. In the second chapter the impact of nickel on the metabolism of cyanobacteria and eukaryotic plants including deficiency and toxicity is considered, as is the application of nickel hyperaccumulator plants for phytomining and phytoremediation. Complex formation of nickel(II/III) with amino acids and peptides as well as of nickel(II) with sugar residues, nucleobases, phosphates, nucleosides, and nucleic acids is summarized in Chapters 3 and 4, respectively, by also taking into account intramolecular equilibria and comparisons with related metal ions

"Volume 35 covers the biological cycling of iron in oceans; the transport of iron in microorganisms, fungi, and plants; the roles and properties of siderophores; the regulation of iron transport and uptake in animals, plants, and microorganisms, and more. "

Volume 19 of the Metal Ions in Life Sciences series focuses on the critical role of metal ions in clinical medicine. While essential for life, metal ions can also be toxic, necessitating careful regulation in human health. The book begins with an overview of significant metal-related drugs and diseases, followed by a discussion on drug development. It emphasizes iron's dual role as vital for both humans and pathogens, alongside its potential toxicity. Chelation therapy is explored in relation to thalassemia and neurodegenerative diseases, highlighting the risks associated with iron administration. The essentiality of chromium and vanadium is debated, noting that while chromium(III) is often used as a supplement by athletes, chromate (Cr(VI)) is a known carcinogen. The effects of manganese, cobalt, and copper are also examined. The need for antiparasitic agents and the clinical use of metal-containing antidotes for cyanide poisoning are underscored. The book discusses various metal ions, including harmful ones like arsenic, lead, and cadmium, as well as those used in diagnosis or treatment, such as gadolinium, gallium, lithium, gold, silver, and platinum. With contributions from experts worldwide, the volume includes approximately 2000 references and about 90 illustrations and tables, making it a valuable resource for scientists across multiple disciplines, including pharmacology and biochemistry, as well as for educational pur

Volume 18, titled Metallo-Drugs: Development and Action of Anticancer Agents, focuses on biological and medicinal inorganic chemistry. It highlights the landmark discovery of cisplatin's antitumor activity by Barnett Rosenberg in the 1960s, which paved the way for metallodrug-based chemotherapy. Following the clinical success of cisplatin, oxaliplatin, and carboplatin, research has shifted toward polynuclear platinum complexes and Pt(IV) prodrugs due to issues like resistance and toxicity. This has spurred investigations into other metal ions, including Ru(II/III), Au(I/III), Ti(IV), V(IV/V), and Ga(III), as well as essential metal ions such as Fe(II/III), Cu(I/II), and Zn(II). The interactions between diverse complexes and biomolecules—like nucleic acids, proteins, and carbohydrates—are explored for their potential anticancer effects. The book summarizes cutting-edge research in medicinal inorganic chemistry, presenting next-generation anticancer drugs in 17 chapters authored by 39 experts from 10 countries. With over 2700 references, nearly 150 illustrations (more than half in color), and comprehensive tables, this work serves as an essential resource for scientists across various fields, including enzymology, material sciences, biochemistry, and medicine, while also providing valuable educational insights.

Volume 17 of the series Metal Ions in Life Sciences focuses on the interrelations between biosystems and lead. It offers a comprehensive review of the bioinorganic chemistry of lead and its ions, addressing the biogeochemistry of lead, its uses (including as a gasoline additive), and its anthropogenic release into the environment. The book examines lead's cycling and speciation in various environments, including the atmosphere, waters, soils, sediments, and mammalian organs. Analytical methods for quantifying this toxic element in biological samples such as blood, saliva, urine, and hair are also discussed. Additionally, it summarizes the properties of lead(II) complexes with amino acids, peptides, proteins (including metallothioneins), nucleobases, nucleotides, and nucleic acids, both in solid-state and aqueous solutions. This information is crucial for understanding lead's effects on plants and its toxic actions on mammalian organs. The volume comprises 16 chapters authored by 36 experts from 13 countries, supported by nearly 2000 references, over 50 tables, and more than 100 illustrations (half in color). It serves as an essential resource for scientists across various fields, including material sciences, inorganic biochemistry, and medicine, while also providing valuable information for educational purposes.