The role of vitamin A in living organisms has been known throughout
human history. In the last 100 years, the biochemical nature of vitamin
A and its active derivative, retinoic acid, its physiological impact on
growth processes, and the essential details of its mechanism of action
have been revealed by investigations carried out by researchers using
vertebrate and more recently invertebrate models to study a multiplicity
of processes and conditions, encompassing embryogenesis, postnatal
development to old age. A wealth of intercellular interactions,
intracellular signaling systems, and molecular mechanisms have been
described and the overall conclusion is that retinoic acid is essential
for life. This book series, with chapters authored by experts in every
aspect of this complex field, unifies the knowledge base and mechanisms
currently known in detailed, engaging, well-illustrated, focused
chapters that synthesize information for each specific area.
In view of the recent information explosion in this field, it is timely
to publish a contemporary, comprehensive, book series recapitulating the
most exciting developments in the field and covering fundamental
research in molecular mechanisms of vitamin A action, its role in
physiology, development, and continued well-being, and the potential of
vitamin A derivatives and synthetic mimetics to serve as therapeutic
treatments for cancers and other debilitating human diseases.
Volume II is divided into nine chapters contributed by prominent experts
in their respective fields. Each chapter starts with the history of the
area of research. Then, the key findings that contributed to development
of the field are described, followed by a detailed look at key findings
and progress that are being made in current, ongoing research. Each
chapter is concluded with a discussion of the relevance of the research
and a perspective on missing pieces and lingering gaps that the author
recommends will be important in defining future directions in vitamin A
research.
