The Secret Of Proteins

It is only a little twig With a green bud at the end; But if you plant it, and water it, And set it where the sun will be above it, It will grow into a tall bush With many flowers, And leaves which thrust hither and thither sparkling.

But if you take my twig, and throw it into a closet with mousetraps and blunt tools, it will shrivel and waste. And, some day, when you open the door, you will think it an old twisted nail, And sweep it into the dustbin with other rubbish.

This book too is a little twig with a bud; a small introduction to proteins, their synthesis and regulation. Whatever little is said here is not the complete story, but it may help new questions to rise in young minds. That the twig might take root as interest in molecular biology is a gratifying thought.

This book, a nice blend of theoretical knowledge with practical implications, is obviously intended for both the educated general reader as well as the scientist well versed in the field of biochemistry and biology.

The titles of the chapters give a summing up of the whole book. From chapter to chapter there is a step-by-step progression in knowledge of the structure, transport and function of proteins. Tables and line diagrams further help the reader in understanding the secrets of proteins. The last chapter is of more direct practical application to the unfortunate disorder prevalent in children, namely, Protein Energy Malnutrition in several parts of the world, including India. The world is now becoming aware that this condition results as much from deficiency of food, as from lack of understanding of the role of various dietary items, especially proteins.

The book is both knowledgeable and enjoyable to read and I congratulate both Dr Medha Rajadhyaksha and Dr Sukanya Datta in achieving this dual purpose.

**Contents and Sample Pages**