Search results for ""Author Lester Packer""

The recognition of oxidative stress as a major factor in health, aging, and disease has led to a surge in research aimed at uncovering effective countermeasures in the form of antioxidants. Unique in its two-fold protective function, alpha-lipoic acid has drawn unprecedented interest as a coenzyme in mitochondrial energy metabolism and as an antioxidant and cell redox modulator. Mounting data regarding its potential health benefits demands an authoritative, single-source reference to codify current knowledge and guide future research. A state-of-the-science compilation, Lipoic Acid follows the history of this potent coenzyme and the latest discoveries regarding the chemistry, biological action, and significance in energy production, antioxidant activity, and health. The book is divided into three sections: · Section I: Discovery and Molecular Structure reviews the early studies leading to the discovery of alpha-lipoic acid and explains the molecular structure, biosynthesis, and the characterization of lipoic acid and its chemical derivatives. · Section II: Metabolic Aspects describes in detail the human pharmacokinetics of alpha-lipoic acid including the lipoic acid-derived dehydrogenase complexes and their roles in energy metabolism. It also explains antioxidant activity and redox modulation and how lipoic acid induces Phase II detoxification enzymes through activation of Nrf2-dependent gene expression. · Section III Clinical Aspects discusses enzyme deficiency disorders and the effects of lipoic acid on insulin. It defines lipoic acid influence on signaling pathways and AMP-activated kinase, and considers the therapeutic implications for treatment of metabolic syndromes and the improvement of mitochondrial function by lipoic acid supplementation. Contributions from leading in

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Nutritional genomics, also referred to as nutrigenomics, is considered one of the next frontiers in the post-genomic era. Its fundamental premise is that while alterations in gene expression or epigenetic phenomena can subvert a healthy phenotype into manifesting chronic disease, through the introduction of certain nutrients, this process can be reversed or modified. Employing state-of-the-art genomic and proteomic investigations that monitor the expression of thousands of genes in response to diet, nutrigenomics investigates the occurrence of relationship between dietary nutrients and gene expression.Nutrigenomics was compiled to update the reader on recent advances in this emerging field. Over forty experts in nutrition, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and the microbial sciences from all across the world present cutting-edge developments and emerging methods presently used in nutrigenomics. They include the latest studies and research on the role of oxidants, antioxidants, phytochemicals, and micronutrients in the modulation of gene expression affecting aging, immune function, carcinogenesis, and vascular health. As most human diseases are largely avoidable by lifestyle changes, this places nutrigenomics at the forefront of preventive medicine.

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