Plant Lipids

New research tools have revealed many surprising aspects of the dynamic nature of lipids and their participation in processes such as recognition, intra- and inter-cellular signalling, deterrence and defence against pathogens, membrane trafficking and protein function. This is in addition to new information on the more established roles of plant lipids as structural components of membranes and as long-term storage products. Plant lipids are also increasingly being seen as sources of a new generation of environmentally friendly, biodegradable and renewable industrial products, including biopolymers and high grade lubricants.

This volume provides a broad overview of plant lipid research and its many applications, linking the various disciplines and providing an interesting and wide-ranging perspective on this fast-moving field. Extensive lists of references are provided, totalling well over two thousand non-redundant citations and offering a point of entry to the detailed literature.

This is a book for researchers and professionals in plant biochemistry, molecular biology, biotechnology and genetics, in both the academic and industrial sectors.

Plant Lipids: Biology, Utilisation and Manipulation provides a broad, contemporary review of plant lipid biology and its applications, drawing on recent advances in cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, genomics, molecular biology and genetic engineering. The field of plant lipids has changed almost beyond recognition in recent years. Modern research tools have revealed many surprising aspects of the dynamic nature of lipids in processes like recognition, signaling, deterrence, defense, membrane trafficking and protein function. Plant lipids are now at the center of an intense debate about their nutritional role and their possible contribution to a healthier diet.