This book, written by a distinguished scientist in the field, provides a comprehensive overview of the biochemical aspects of all luminous organisms currently known. It is the first and only book that provides chemical information on all known bioluminescence systems, in a single volume. Some 35 different types of bioluminescence organisms are discussed in 10 chapters. The descriptions include: a history of the discovery of luminescence substances such as luciferins, luciferases and photoproteins; the process of research, explaining how luminescent substances have been isolated and purified; the properties of luminescent substances; and the reaction modes and mechanisms involved, as interpreted currently. Important experimental data and graphs are included in the book, making time-consuming reference searches almost unnecessary. Helpful advice for experimentalists is given in an appendix.
Contents:
The Fireflies and Luminous Insects
Luminous Bacteria
The Ostracod Cypridina (Vargula) and Other Luminous Crustaceans
The Jellyfish Aequorea and Other Luminous Coelenterates
The Coelenterazines
Luminous Mollusca
Annelida
Dinoflagellates and Other Protozoa
Luminous Fungi
Other Luminous Organisms
Appendices:
Taxonomic Classification of Selected Luminous Organisms
Lists of Luciferins, Luciferases and Photoproteins Isolated
Miscellaneous Technical Information
Advice to Students Who are Interested in Studying the Chemistry of Bioluminescence