Structure, Cellular Synthesis and Assembly of Biopolymers (Results and Problems in Cell Differentiation)

Many naturally occurring biopolymers have unique structures and unique physical or mechanical properties. The understanding of the molecular basis of these biomolecules, their synthesis, assembly and processing, is a prerequisite for any application to the design of novel biomolecular materials. Several classes of biopolymers are sampled in depth in this volume, such as nanolaminated ceramics, adhesive proteins, eggshell proteins, protein fibres and silk, which are synthesized by a variety of organisms (molluscs, parasitic trematodes, fish and insects). The reader is introduced to the biological systems to understand nature's use of each biopolymer and the highly differentiated cells responsible for their synthesis.