The Authors: Stephen J. Lippard and Jeremy M. Berg
Stephen J. Lippard and Jeremy M. Berg are two prominent scientists in the field of bioinorganic chemistry. Lippard is a professor of chemistry at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), while Berg is a professor of computational and systems biology at the University of Pittsburgh. Together, they have co-authored the well-known textbook, Principles of Bioinorganic Chemistry, which has become a staple in the field since its initial publication in 1994.
Lippard received his undergraduate degree in chemistry from Haverford College and his PhD from MIT. He has been a faculty member at MIT since 1966 and has made numerous contributions to the field of bioinorganic chemistry, particularly in the area of metalloproteins and their role in biological systems. Berg, on the other hand, earned his undergraduate degree in chemistry from Stanford University and his PhD in molecular biophysics and biochemistry from Yale University. He has been a faculty member at the University of Pittsburgh since 1986 and has published extensively in the field of bioinorganic chemistry and computational biology.
Their collaboration on Principles of Bioinorganic Chemistry has resulted in a comprehensive and authoritative textbook that covers the fundamentals of bioinorganic chemistry, including the structures and properties of metal ions and their interactions with biological molecules. The book has been widely used as a textbook for graduate and undergraduate courses in bioinorganic chemistry, and has also become a valuable reference for researchers in the field.
The Book: Principles of Bioinorganic Chemistry
Published by University Science Books, Principles of Bioinorganic Chemistry provides a thorough understanding of the principles governing the interactions between metal ions and biological molecules. The book is divided into three parts: Fundamentals, Metal Complexes in Biology, and Basic Coordination Chemistry.
In the first part, the reader is introduced to the basic concepts of coordination chemistry, including coordination numbers, geometry, and bonding. This section also covers topics such as thermodynamics and kinetics of coordination reactions, and the principles of spectroscopic techniques used in the study of metal complexes.
The second part delves into the role of metal ions in biological systems, including their functions in enzymes, proteins, and other biomolecules. This section also explores the different strategies used by living organisms to acquire, transport, and store essential metal ions. The final part of the book discusses the fundamental principles of coordination chemistry, providing a solid foundation for understanding the interactions between metal ions and biological molecules.
One of the strengths of Principles of Bioinorganic Chemistry is its clear and concise writing style, making it accessible to both advanced undergraduate and graduate students. The book also includes numerous figures, tables, and diagrams that help to illustrate key concepts, as well as a glossary of important terms.
Key Topics in Principles of Bioinorganic Chemistry
One of the key topics covered in the book is the role of metal ions in biological systems. Metal ions are essential for a wide range of biological processes, including enzymatic catalysis, oxygen transport, electron transfer, and sensing. The book discusses the different coordination geometries and electronic structures of metal ions and how these properties affect their reactivity and biological functions.
Another important topic is the use of spectroscopic techniques in the study of biological systems. The book covers various spectroscopic methods, such as UV-visible, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), and electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), and how these techniques can be used to study the structures and reactivity of metal complexes in biological systems.
The book also delves into the biochemistry of metal ions, including their uptake and transport in biological systems. This section covers the different mechanisms used by organisms to acquire and transport essential metal ions, such as iron, copper, and zinc.
The final section of the book covers basic coordination chemistry, including topics such as ligand field theory, crystal field theory, and electron spin resonance. These principles are essential for understanding the structure and reactivity of metal complexes in biological systems and provide a foundation for further study in the field of bioinorganic chemistry.
Contribution to the Field of Bioinorganic Chemistry
Principles of Bioinorganic Chemistry has become a standard reference for researchers in the field, as well as a valuable resource for students and scientists interested in learning about the fundamental principles of bioinorganic chemistry. The book has been praised for its comprehensive coverage of the subject, clear and concise writing style, and numerous helpful illustrations.
The authors’ extensive experience and expertise in the field make this book a invaluable tool for anyone studying or working in bioinorganic chemistry. Their work has served as a foundation for further research in the field, and the book continues to be updated and revised with new information and developments in the field of bioinorganic chemistry.
In conclusion, Principles of Bioinorganic Chemistry by Stephen J. Lippard and Jeremy M. Berg is an essential resource for anyone interested in the fundamental principles of bioinorganic chemistry. The book covers a wide range of topics and provides a thorough understanding of the role of metal ions in biological systems. It is a valuable addition to any library and a must-read for students and researchers in the field.
