Biochemistry - Chemical Reactions in Living Cells, Volume 1 - D. Metzler 1980

Foreword by the Translation Editors

The textbook offered to the reader's attention was written by the renowned American biochemist D. Metzler. The author set out to analyze the structures, Functions, and processes characteristic of the living Cell from the perspective of modern bioorganic chemistry and molecular physics. He focuses on a comprehensive examination of Chemical Reactions occurring within Cells, the Enzymes catalyzing these reactions, and the fundamental principles of METABOLISM and Energy Exchange. For the first time, a Classification of the chemical mechanisms of enzymatic reactions is presented (nucleophilic substitution, addition reactions, elimination reactions, isomerization reactions, etc.). This most clearly demonstrates the advantage of approaching biochemical problems from a bioorganic viewpoint. Many topics that previously did not receive adequate attention in biochemistry courses are thoroughly elaborated. These include, in particular, the Quantitative evaluation of intermolecular interaction forces, the principles of molecule "packing" in supramolecular structures (self-assembly), and cooperative structural changes in macromolecules and their complexes. Essential information is provided on the Structure AND FUNCTIONS of cell membranes, as well as Cell Surface Antigens and Receptors. Photosynthesis, Vision, and A number of other biological processes associated with Light absorption are discussed in considerable detail, alongside a characterization of the physical phenomena observed during the interaction of light and matter.

A special place in the monograph is occupied by chapters dedicated to biochemical genetics and the problems of growth and differentiation.

A major merit of the book is that throughout (wherever possible), the author strives to trace the interrelation between physiological phenomena and the underlying chemical reactions, as well as the structural rearrangements of supramolecular complexes.

The book is richly illustrated. Each chapter is accompanied by a relatively concise yet well-curated list of References. It is worth noting that the author incorporates the most up-to-date data. Questions and Problems are provided at the end of the chapters, allowing students to test their comprehension of the material.

The book objectively reflects the contributions of various authors, including Soviet scientists, to The Development of biochemistry. The author has visited the USSR on several occasions, mastered the Russian language, and maintains ongoing scientific contacts with Soviet biochemists.

D. Metzler's textbook differs quite significantly from the textbooks by A. Lehninger, G. Mahler, and L. Cordes translated into Russian in recent years. It will undoubtedly be extremely useful for undergraduate and graduate students studying biological and bioorganic chemistry, as well as for instructors and researchers working in this field. A number of sections will also be of undoubted interest to biophysicists, physiologists, and pharmacologists.

A. E. Braunshtein, L. M. Ginodman, E. S. Severin

Author's Preface TO THE Russian Translation

I am very glad that my colleagues—Soviet biochemists—have translated this book into Russian, making it accessible to students in the Soviet Union. I had a long-standing association with one of its editors, Academician A. E. Braunshtein. I first became acquainted with his work back in 1948 when I became a graduate student in biochemistry and began studying the chemistry of Pyridoxal phosphate. Later, in 1965, I was fortunate to spend five months in his laboratory, working alongside Professors R. M. Khomutov, E. S. Severin (also one of the editors of this volume), and other young, passionate biochemists. This period was immensely beneficial for my scientific growth. Certain ideas that originated at that time during discussions with Soviet biochemists played a crucial role in shaping my understanding of enzymology, and they are now reflected in various ways throughout this book.

Over the past 15 years, there has been a strong alignment of scientific interests between my laboratory and researchers at the Institute of Molecular Biology. Our own "scientific exchange program" was carried out through personal visits, correspondence, and other channels. All of this has been profoundly rewarding for me, and the achievements of my Moscow colleagues appear truly impressive; I would particularly like to congratulate them on determining the Introduction/19.html">Primary Structure of Heart aspartate aminotransferase, and subsequently, the three-dimensional structure of this enzyme.

Contacts with Soviet scientists are important to me in another respect as well. I have long felt that strong personal and friendly ties are essential between Americans and citizens of the Soviet Union. I am convinced that our two nations are very similar in character and that we can and must live in peace, respecting one another. Having the opportunity to spend several months in the Soviet Union and "leave a piece of my life there"¹ was a profound privilege for me. Today, in my country, I strive to promote the cause of peace and combat the international arms race, which poses a threat to us all.

David E. Metzler

June 15, 1979

¹ The words in italics were written by the author in Russian. — Ed. note